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CITIZENSHIP DRAMATIZED 

A BIT OF BRIGHTENING FOR THE STUDY 
OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT 



BY 

GEORGE A. McPHETERS, B.S. 

Instructor in Chics in the High School, Melrose, Mass. 
AND 

GRACE J. A. CLEAVELAND 

President of The Melrose League of Women Voters 
ASSISTED BY 

STELLA W. JONES 

Supervisor of Women's Work in The Americanization 

Bureau of Pennsylvania 




NEW YORK 
HENRY HOLT AND COMPANY 



f$ 



Copyright, 1921, 

BY 

HENRY HOLT AND COMPANY 



t* 



JUN 30 '2.1 



©CU614866 






PREFACE 

He who learns from practice as well as precept, has 
ever been the most firmly grounded in knowledge ; and it 
is equally true that he to whom study is play, has ever 
been the most apt pupil. 

Recognizing the fact that the study of government is 
becoming of major importance to a vast number of Amer- 
ican women, and that increasing emphasis is being put 
on it in American schools, the authors of this little book 
have endeavored to present the essential facts of citizen- 
ship through a series of demonstrations or plays that 
will instruct and at the same time entertain. They are 
far from claiming to have given here an exhaustive com- 
pilation of facts on citizenship. Rather they have at- 
tempted to excite the curiosity of the individual pupil 
and thus lead him to investigate the subject himself. 

With this in mind it is urged that those who take part 
in the following demonstrations visit the legislative ses- 
sions and political gatherings in or near their own com- 
munities whenever possible. This will enable them to 
make the performance realistic, and furthermore, as 
methods of government procedure differ in different lo- 
calities, it will help to make each demonstration locally 
accurate. 

For the past three years this method of instruction 
has actually been carried out with marked success in 
the High School of Melrose, Massachusetts; and during 

iii 



iv PREFACE 

the winter of 1919-20, it was enthusiastically adopted 
by the Melrose Equal Suffrage League in its citizenship 
work. There can be no doubt of the educational value 
of this method, nor of the entertainment it will afford, 
but any tendency to use it as a burlesque would be un- 
patriotic and destroy its further usefulness. 

When the demonstrations are not given in a class 
room and supervised by a teacher, an efficient leader, 
who is familiar with the subject matter and can assign 
the parts and prepare the material, is absolutely essen- 
tial. The leader also acts as a cicerone or showman ex- 
plaining or emphasizing each episode in a performance. 

In the class room all rehearsals may be dispensed with. 
Remarkable results will be obtained by allowing the pupil 
to imagine himself the person of his part and giving 
him great latitude in dialogue. It is more difficult for 
the adult to do this successfully, but the peculiar charm 
that characterizes this method of teaching will be for- 
feited by repeated rehearsals. 

The story that appears in connection with each of the 
chapters is for the benefit of the leader, who for any 
reason cannot acquire this data for himself from the 
many available resources. It may be read or told as an 
introduction to the performance, if so desired. 



CONTENTS 



Chapter I. The Story of Town Government . 1 
The Instructions for Carrying on a Mock Town 
Meeting — Lists of Persons and Properties — 
Program of Demonstration in Detail — A Model 
Warrant — Model Ballot — Suggestions for Dis- 
cussion on Articles of Warrant. 

Chapter II. The Story of County Government 11 
The Instructions for Carrying on a Mock Ses- 
sion of a County Court — Lists of Persons and 
Properties — Program of Demonstration in De- 
tail — Diagram of Court Room — Model Trial 
Lists — Suggestions for Conduct of a Civil Suit 
for Damages. 

Chapter III. The Story of City Government . 42 
The Instructions for Carrying on a Mock Civic 
Election — Lists of Persons and Properties — 
Program of Demonstration in Detail — Model 
Nomination Papers — Model Polling List and 
Ballot— Model City Oath, etc., etc. 

Chapter IV. Board of Aldermen Session . . 61 
Instructions for the Conduct of a Mock Meeting 
— Lists of Persons and Properties — Program of 
Demonstration in Detail — Model Calendar — 
Model Recommendations, Petitions and Orders 
— Suggestions for Discussion on Bills. 

Chapter V. The Story of State Government . 76 
The Instructions for Carrying on a Mock State 
Hearing — Lists of Persons and Properties — 
Program of Demonstration in Detail — A Model 
Bill — Suggestions for the Speeches of Propon- 
ents and Opponents. 



vl CONTENTS 

Chapter VI. Story of State Legislatures . . 96 
Instructions for the Conduct of a Session of the 
Lower House — Lists of Persons and Properties 
— Program of Demonstration in Detail — Model 
Calendar or Order of the Day — Suggestions for 
Speeches and Discussion. 

Chapter VII. The Story of Federal Govern- 
ment 124 

The Instructions for Carrying on a Mock Fed- 
eral Hearing — Lists of Persons and Properties 
— Program of Demonstration in Detail — Model 
Indictment — Complaint and Warrant — Sugges- 
tions for Evidence. 

Chapter VIII. Introduction to Presidential 

Convention . . . . . 167 
Suggestions for Speeches Before Platform Com- 
mittee — Instructions for the Conduct of One 
Day's Mock Session of a Presidential Conven- 
tion, Including Singing, Demonstrations and 
Nominations — Suggestions of Keynote and 
Nomination Speeches. 



CHAPTER I 
THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 

One of the oldest and perhaps the most democratic of 
all forms of government is that of the town. Brought 
here from England, where it had existed for centuries, 
it still flourishes, particularly in New England, as a 
favorite and satisfactory form of self-government. 

The two essential elements of the town government 
are the town meeting and the board of selectmen. The 
former might be called the town legislature. Instead 
of acting through delegates, however, the people act di- 
rectly, and by open discussion and direct voting they 
determine the policies which affect them as individuals 
and as parts of the community. 

The town meeting is held once a year — usually in the 
spring. The larger towns find it necessary also to hold 
one or two adjourned sessions, and at times, special 
meetings, to consider matters which require immediate 
attention. The warrant, posted in conspicuous places 
in the town, to inform the voters of the time and place 
of meeting and of the business to be transacted, is a 
tradition as old as the town meeting itself. 

The most important functions of this assembly are 
the election of public officials and the passage of laws 
which deal with local affairs, such as public finance, 
schools, health, roads and the care of the poor. Reports. 

X 



2 THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 

are made by the officials of the work accomplished and 
estimates of the money necessary for further use are 
submitted. Perhaps the most characteristic feature of 
this democratic institution, so dear to the real American, 
is the general discussion, interspersed with heated de- 
bates, which almost invariably occurs as each article 
.of the warrant comes up for consideration. 

The town clerk is an important official. Among other 
things, he keeps the records and registers, issues licenses 
of various sorts and calls the town meetings to order, 
but the moderator, whose choice is the initial business 
of the meeting, is second to none in importance during 
the session. 

Of course, the finances of the town are handled by the 
town treasurer, with the necessary* assistance of the 
assessors and collectors of taxes, and an auditor. 

The selectmen, from three to nine in number, accord- 
ing to the size of the town, constitute the executive 
authority for all matters not otherwise assigned. They 
are usually elected for a term of three years and in 
case of the smaller board, the term of one member ex- 
pires each year. This board assumes the general manage- 
ment of the town's affairs, listens to all complaints and 
represents the town in all suits at law. The New Eng- 
land town is a legal corporation and, as such, can hold 
property, sue and be sued. 

It must not be forgotten that the foregoing descrip- 
tion applies particularly to the town governments in 
New England, where the original methods and customs 
are still followed closely. In other parts of the country 
are found town governments more or less divergent from 
this cherished institution. 



THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 3 

INSTRUCTIONS 

Persons Properties 

Moderator 

Town Clerk Town Warrant 

Town Treasurer Ballots 

Selectmen — three or five Gavel 

School Committee Polling List 

Tellers — two Ballot Box 

Speakers — four or more 

Questioners — two or three 

Chronic Kicker 

Constable 

Village WSt 

The demonstration of a town meeting, although log- 
ically the first in the class room course, is not imperative 
for a city unit of women who are studying citizenship ; 
but wherever given, it will prove most entertaining as 
well as instructive. 

A mock warrant, typewritten and mimeographed, 
similar to the one given at the end of this chapter, may 
be sent out as a notice of the first meeting and should 
be used later as a program for the moderator's use. This 
may readily be made original and of local interest by 
reference to old records, which are always available at 
the town clerk's office. As nearly all of our American 
cities are not long graduated from the town form of 
government, old records will be equally available at the 
city clerk's office. 

The use of real names of members of your group or 
class as candidates for town offices will add greatly to 
the interest. A complete list of the members, with their 
addresses, must be in readiness for a mock polling list. 

The moderator should be your best parliamentarian. 
Besides the full quota of town officials, it is well to pro- 



4 



THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 



vide for several members to make motions and second 
them, others to ask questions, pertinent and impertinent, 
a few to carry on the discussion, and at least one chronic 
kicker who shall stand ready to object to the passage 
of any measure containing an appropriation. 

Typewritten ballots modelled from the illustration 
should be prepared. The ballot box can be contrived 
with very little ingenuity, although it is sometimes pos- 
sible to borrow one. During the course of the demon- 
stration the leader should be ready to make any explana- 
tions that may be necessary. Facts from the story may 
be emphasized, and the subject matter of the foot notes 
is of no little value. 

MODEL BALLOT x 





TOWN ELECTION 




Town of Warwick 


May 7tl 


Official 
1—1920 


Ballot 


To vote for a 


person put 


a cross at right of name 




Town Clerk 




Treasurer — vote for one 




Aaron Allen 


a 


Byron Bailey 


□ 






Bernard Bumpus 


D 


Selectmen — vote for one 




School Committee — vote for 


one 


Christopher Carpenter 


a 


Helen Holden 


□ 


Daniel Dooley 


□ 


Horace Howe 


D 


Edward Everett 
Frank Fernald 


□ 

a 






Constable 




George Green 


a 


Joseph Jones 


D 



i These ballots are supposed to be provided for by the town 
clerk and selectmen. The candidates in larger towns take out 
nomination papers, but in smaller places the selectmen constitute 
themselves a nominating committee. 



THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 5 

THE DEMONSTRATION 

After the reading of the story, as suggested in the 
preface, the leader opens the meeting with these words: 

"In pursuance of the town warrant we are here as- 
sembled in Town Hall, Warwick, for the purpose of do- 
ing business. The hour has arrived. The meeting is 
called to order." He reads from the warrant — 

"The first article — To choose a moderator. I await 
nominations from the floor." 

Some one rises, is recognized by the leader and pro- 
poses Timothy Thomas for moderator. 

This motion is seconded. 

The leader says, "The motion has been made and 
seconded that Timothy Thomas serve as moderator of 
this meeting. How shall he be elected?" 

Going through the usual form of recognition, some one 
proposes that Joseph Jones be empowered to cast on© 
vote for moderator. 

This is done. The ballot being deposited in a hat, 
the leader draws out the ballot and says : 

"I find one ballot bearing the name of Timothy 
Thomas. I declare him duly elected moderator of this 
meeting." 

The moderator now assumes the chair. Taking the 
warrant, he reads Article II. As this refers to the elec- 
tion of town officers, the voting must be done with the 
prepared ballots. The moderator appoints two tellers, 
who distribute the ballots ; after which the voters file one 
by one past the tellers, who ask their names and check 
them off on the polling list. 1 After all ballots have been 

1 In small towns the constable, who is supposed to know every 
one in the community, simply stands at the ballot box and his 
recognition qualifies the voter. 



6 THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 

marked and deposited in the box, the votes are counted 
by the tellers with great solemnity, and as soon as the 
results are ascertained, the town clerk declares each 
successful candidate after this fashion : 

"I find 30 votes cast for school committee; 15 for 
Helen Holden, 10 for Horace Howe, 5 blanks. I declare 
Helen Holden duly elected. ' ' 1 

Article III is now read and the moderator asks for 
discussion. Speakers for and against rise, and after 
recognition by the chair, express their opinions. Some 
prepared speeches should be read, but impromptu opin- 
ions are most welcome and add much to the enjoyment 
of the session. There need be no hesitation about heck- 
ling the speaker when it is realized that the whole dem- 
onstration is but play. 

When the question is called for it should be a yea and 
nay vote. Whenever the moderator is uncertain of the 
result, he may call for a rising vote or, in cases of appro- 
priations, a roll call. 2 

In this way each article in the warrant is read, dis- 
cussed and acted upon. 

Imaginary reports of committees 3 and town officers 
may be read, but as these are usually printed in the town 
Year Book for general distribution, this may be omitted 
or added at the option of the leader. 

The meeting is adjourned in the usual parliamentary 
way. 

i At this place the leader should explain that all town officers 
and the selectmen will be sworn into office at the town clerk's 
office on the following day. 

2 The roll call is exactly what the name signifies. 

s It is a tradition of the small town that each selectman assume 
the management of some portion of the town business, such as 
tax collecting, overseeing the poor, or repairing highways. This 
makes him technically the chairman of that committee. 



THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 7 

WARRANT 

To the Constable of the Town of Warwick in the County 
of Kent. GREETING : ' 

In the name of the Commonwealth of Massasoit, you are 
hereby required to notify the Inhabitants of the Town of 
Warwick, qualified to vote in elections and Town affairs, 
to meet at the 

TOWN HALL 
on Monday the Seventh day of May, a. d. 1920 at 7:30 
then and there to act on the following articles, viz: 
Article I. To choose a Moderator. 
Article II. To elect town officials. 

Article III. To see if the town will authorize the con- 
struction of a new road bridge over the Appleseed Brook 

on the North Road. 
Article IV. To see if the town will accept the Littlefield 

Homestead for a Free Public Library building. 
Article V. To determine whether the Center School needs 

shingling and to make appropriations for same if neces- 
sary. 
Article VI. To see what disposition the town will make 

of the lot of land lying south of the cemetery. 
Article VII. To act upon any other business which may 

legally come before this meeting. 

And you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting 
attested copies thereof at the Town Hall, the Post Office 
and the Depot, not less than seven days before the day 
appointed for said meeting, and by leaving printed copies 
of the Warrant at the dwellings of the legal voters before 
the day of meeting. 

Hereof fail not, and make due return of this Warrant, 
with your doings thereof, to the Town Clerk, at the time 
and place of said meeting. 

Given under our hands this 28th day of April in the year 

1920. 

George Green 
True copy — Attest: Daniel Dooley 

Joseph Jones, Constable. Matthew Mason 

Selectmen of Warwick. 



8 THE STORY OP TOWN GOVERNMENT 

Suggestions for Discussions on the Articles of the 
Warrant 

Article III. Immdiately the moderator finishes read- 
ing Article III, which refers to a new bridge oyer the 
Appleseed Brook, some one jumps to his feet and says: 
' ' I should like to ask, Mr. Moderator, what is the matter 
with the old bridge ?" 

The moderator calls on the selectman who is respon- 
sible for the highways to answer the question. 

Getting slowly to his feet, the selectman explains pon- 
derously that there is nothing the matter with the bridge 
providing one keeps to the right going over to town and 
to the left coming back, but if experiments are tried 
with the middle or the downstream side they are likely 
to prove fatal. 

Objection is taken to the word ' 'fatal" on the ground 
that the brook is not deep enough at this point to drown 
a cat. The selectman goodnaturedly explains that 
"fatal" refers to the old "hoss and buggy" rather than 
to life and limb. 

Some one suggests that the boards might be replaced, 
and that the original sills could be used again to reduce 
the expense. Now the oldest inhabitant is called upon 
to tell how old the foundations really are. He allows 
that he doesn't know that; but he does know that his 
Uncle Nathan's initials are carved on the end of one 
of the stringers, and that Uncle Nathan has been dead 
sixty years. 

Sixty years doesn't seem a long time for good oak 
timbers to stand up, remarks another speaker, who goes 
on to make the statement that there are timbers in his 



THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 9 

barn still "going strong" that are nearer a hundred and 
sixty than sixty years old. 

Here the village wit asks the last speaker what he 
plans to do with his barn if he ever does tear it down. 
For his part he would like to contract for those fine old 
oak timbers, as he was reading in the almanac the other 
night, that dry rot was sure death to potato bugs. 

Article IV. The proposition to shingle the school 
house is bitterly contested because it develops that one 
Bertram Bumpus has a quantity of cedar shingles left 
over which he is hoping to sell to the town. No one has 
discovered a recent leak, nor has the teacher complained 
of the roof not being tight, so it is finally decided to 
pass this over for another year, and use the money for 
painting the Poor-house. 

Article V. The town votes to accept the Littlefield 
Homestead as a Free Public Library, although the rooms 
used for that purpose in the Town Hall are still adequate 
because, in accordance with the widow's will, if the town 
does not. take it, it goes to the next of kin. As the next 
of kin is known to be shiftless, the Town Fathers fear 
the old place will be allowed to run down and thus be- 
come a disfiguring feature of the Church Square, of 
which they are justly proud. This vote is not allowed 
to go through, however, until many anxious inquiries 
are made as to the expense of up-keep and equipment. 

Article VI. When it comes to disposing of the lot 
south of the cemetery, the meeting is rent in twain. 
One faction wishes to sell it to the highest bidder, and 
add the price to the town funds. Another thinks it 
should be deeded to the cemetery lest the purchaser put 
it to some use that would not be in keeping with its sleep- 



10 THE STORY OF TOWN GOVERNMENT 

ing neighbors. A third is horrified at its being incor- 
porated in the cemetery because it was originally the 
Town Pound, and no one would buy a burying lot that 
had ever been put to such profane use*. The chronic 
kicker can see no reason why a perfectly good piece of 
land should be deeded away for any purpose without 
proper compensation, and if the trustees of the cemetery 
couldn 't sell it, the town should. 

The village wit now comes forward with the bright 
idea of a burying lot for pet animals. He can think of 
several old horses in the neighborhood that are looking 
wistfully toward a rest. 

Mr. Moderator feels obliged to snub this last speaker, 
and they vote to lay the question on the table. 



CHAPTER II 
STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

The county which we think of as being only a subdi- 
vision of the state, created for the purpose of facilitat- 
ing the administration of the state laws, is really a 
legacy to us from the English shire. The functions of 
the county are determined by the legislature of the 
state, except where specified by the state constitution. 
Like the town the county is a corporation. It possesses 
property and therefore can sue and be sued. It looks 
after the peace of the district, administers justice, 
registers titles to land, provides for the upkeep of 
schools, builds and repairs roads and bridges, provides 
for the dependent, and protects the health of the com- 
munity. The revenues of the county are derived from 
taxation, and out of these revenues are paid the expenses 
of carrying out the duties of the county. 

The people of the county select their own officers, 
prominent among whom are the board of commissioners 
or supervisors, the sheriff, the treasurer, and the district 
attorney. Generally there are from three to five mem- 
bers on the board of commissioners, whose duties are 
the overseeing of all county buildings and property and 
fixing of the tax rate needed to cover the amount of 
county expenses. Powers are also -given the commis- 
sioners, in some states, to divide the county into town- 
ships, school and road districts. The duties and powers 

11 



12 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

are necessarily different in each section of the country, 
but on the whole the functions of this board are mate- 
rially the same. 

Because of the many orders and decisions of the county 
judges and of all the higher courts of the state, which 
must be carried out within the limits of the county, the 
sheriff is perhaps the most powerful of all county offi- 
cials. He usually looks after the county jail and its 
inmates, and in this work he is assisted by one or more 
deputies. 

The county treasurer receives the money collected by 
the tax collectors, and he does not pay any bills except 
on the receipt of a written order from the auditor. 

In most of the states there are county courts, known 
as courts for orphans, surrogate or probate. These 
have jurisdiction over the appointing of administrators 
and guardians, the probate of wills and the settlement of 
estates. The judges of these courts have a life tenure 
in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island, 
while in a majority of the others they are elected by 
popular vote for a certain term of years, and in all 
cases are subject to removal for bad behavior. 

It can be seen by what has gone before that the local 
governments of town and county are most important, 
and upon their success or failure depends the efficiency 
of the larger government of the state. Although origin- 
ally the county included the governing of only sparsely 
settled communities and isolated towns and districts, 
nevertheless today a single city may occupy one county, 
and in spite of the many changes in transportation and 
communication the form of county government remains 
practically the same. 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 13 

COUNTY COURT 
Persons Properties 

Judge Tables (eight) 

Attorneys (eight) Chairs (twelve) 

Jurymen (twelve) Settees (eight) 

Jury officer Witness stand 

Court crier Ballot box 

Deputy sheriff Judge's robe 

Court stenographer Sheriff's wand 
Plaintiff 
Defendant 
Witnesses (four) 

Written Material 

Trial lists (twenty) 

Juror cards (fifteen) 

Declarations 

Special briefs (four) 

Common brief 

Testimony of witnesses (six) 

Model lawyer's statement of 

case ( two ) 
Model examination 
Model cross examination (two) 
Model lawyer's pleas (two) 
Lines for judge and court 
officials 

INSTRUCTIONS 
In preparing for this demonstration, the leader should 
use great care' in assigning the parts to the members of 
the unit. The judge's role need not be given to the 
brightest member, for the few things he must say may 
be memorized. For the judge, clerk, sheriff and crier a 
careful reading and perhaps re-reading of the demonstra- 
tion which follows would usually be sufficient to enable 
them to support their parts. A copy of the lines spoken 
by each person who has a speaking part may be made, 
and this held in some inconspicuous place during the 
performance. 



14 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

The attorneys who try the case, however, should be 
good and original talkers. Some experience in debating 
will be an invaluable asset in their case. Their parts 
are so important that it would be well for each of them 
to visit a real court room and see real attorneys in 
action. If this is not possible, let them try to get a 
friendly lawyer to coach them in their parts. Lacking 
this preparation, a rehearsal with the leader will be 
necessary. The other four attorneys have inconspicuous 
parts with very short lines. 

The court stenographer need be but a part of the 
ensemble; but if it chance that the unit has the good 
fortune to include a real stenographer in its number, 
it will add much to the demonstration to have her read 
real evidence from real notes. 

The clerk, whose duties are more numerous than any 
other court official (see Demonstration), must appear 
to write busily whenever he is not otherwise employed. 
Consulting with the judge in whispers is also the clerk's 
prerogative. 

The court crier has a formula for the opening and 
closing of the court which will be easily memorized. The 
sheriff, whose duty it is to escort the judge into the 
court room with great formality, must also keep order 
in the court room. He may rap if whispering, laughter, 
or any commotion is apparent. He may reprimand any 
spectator who is reading or otherwise not paying due 
respect to the court. 

The jury officer ushers the jury in and out, receives 
their charge from the clerk, and, with great dignity, 
walks about occasionally on imaginary errands. 

The plaintiff and defendant, as indicated in the dia- 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 15 

gram, are seated with the witnesses until they are sworn 
in or called to the witness stand. There, they answer 
questions in accordance with the transcripts of their 
evidence which have previously been given them by the 
leader. The common brief should be copied or written, 
if an original case is used, and ten copies should be 
mimeographed. These are for the four attorneys, the 
four witnesses and the plaintiff and defendant. The 
transcripts of evidence are, as will be seen by consulting 
the models, all different, and are for the plaintiff and 
defendant and the four witnesses. In order that the 
witnesses shall be thoroughly familiar with their subject 
matter, their testimony should be given them some little 
time before the performance. The statements of the case 
are for the first two lawyers only, and it is quite per- 
missible to read these from copies before the judge and 
the jury. The model pleas are for the two second at- 
torneys. After the idea is grasped, however, it will be 
better to discard them and write original ones. For as 
this plea is the real feature of the performance, individ- 
uality and spontaneity will add immeasurably to the 
interest. The model examination and cross examination 
are purely suggestive too, and will need to be copied in 
writing only if the mock attorneys are unable to have 
the use of the book for preparation. 

The trial lists (often called "short lists") which are 
supposed to be taken from the clerk's docket, must be 
typewritten and mimeographed in readiness for the per- 
formance. They may follow the model given on page 
23 or be quite original, as the leader closes. They 
should be a conspicuous part of the court scene, and 
every one in the performance (except the jurymen) may 



16 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

help himself to one, as they lie on the clerk's desk. 

The witness stand, which is really a small platform 
with a railing on three sides, can be easily improvised 
by a low stool placed behind a highbacked chair. This 
gives the step up and a place for the hands to rest while 
testifying. 

The box containing the juror cards is called a ballot 
box. A good substitute is a small barrel, such as cookies 
are packed in. It is supposed to contain the names of all 
the jurymen chosen for a whole session, but fifteen names, 
leaving three to be challenged, will suffice. If the real 
names of members of the unit are used, it will add to 
the interest ; in that case, they can simply sit in the 
audience until their names are called by the clerk and 
there need be no preparation on their part. 1 For this 
demonstration, choose, if possible, a hall having an ad- 
joining room, as this is much needed for the jurors' 
retirement. 

The diagram below should be followed carefully, not 



Witness 
Stand 



Df 



OosB 



O Sheriff 



o o 

Attorneys 



Door 



O Judge 



Q Clerk 



O O Attorneys 



Attorney Benches 



Plaintiff — Defendant 



Witness Benches 



Crier O 



i The leader might explain here that a juryman, if drafted, 
must serve unless he can prove good and sufficient reason to 
prevent. 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 17 

only in arranging the mock court room, but also in seat- 
ing the court. 

A university graduate's gown may be substituted for 
the judge's robe, and for the sheriff's wand use a broom 
handle which may be decorated, if talent is available, 
with the arms of the state. 

DEMONSTRATION 

After the leader, or some one chosen by the leader, has 
made the introductory remarks on county government, 
let the sheriff be sent to conduct the judge into court. 
Meanwhile the clerk and court stenographer take their 
places as indicated on the diagram, and the eight attor- 
neys occupy the benches assigned them. 

The crier and jury officer stand on either side of the 
entrance to the improvised court room, while the judge 
in his robe, accompanied by the sheriff, marches in. The 
court and spectators stand as the judge enters and remain 
standing until he has taken his place. While all are still 
standing, including the sheriff who holds up his wand 
near the judge's bench, the crier, from his place, says: 
"Hear ye! Hear ye! Hear ye! All persons having 
anything to do before the Honorable, the Justices of 
the Superior Court in the first session thereof now sit- 
ting in Boston within and for the County of Suffolk, 
draw near and give your attendance and you shall be 
heard : God save the Commonwealth of Massachusetts ! ' ' 

As soon as the court is seated, the attention of each 
and all is turned to the trial lists, from which. the clerk 
begins to read. As he reads, the four attorneys, who 
are not trying the case, chosen for demonstration, an- 



18 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

swer when their cases are called, using the data furnished 
them by the leader. (See Special Briefs 1-2-3 & 4 
page 24.) In doing this they may move forward to 
the judge's bench or stand at their places. Several 
cases are not responded to at all and these are supposed 
to be dropped from the docket, without comment by 
the court; but when a plaintiff's case is ready and no 
one appears for the defendant, the judge, after looking 
about the court sharply, may say,' ' ' This case is dropped 
to the next session." The same form is used when a 
plaintiff's lawyer is the non-appearing party. If the 
response is made that an important witness is unable, 
to be present or that the attorney for either side is try- 
ing at the same time another case in another court, the 
judge may say "This case may stand" or "This case 
may go to the bottom of the list. ' ' 

When the seventh case is called an attorney for the 
plaintiff answers "Ready, Your Honor," and one for 
the defendant answers in the same way. Then follows a 
general stirring about the court. The four chosen attor- 
neys take their places at their desks (see diagram of 
court room) and begin to consult their papers, while 
the other four leave the court scene and join the spec- 
tators. 

Next the clerk takes the ballot box, shakes it about, 
and drawing from it a juror's card, announces his name. 
The juror takes his place in the jury seats. This con- 
tinues until twelve men are drawn. When twelve men 
are in the jury seats, two of the attorneys hand slips 
to the clerk. The clerk calls out "Mr. Rich is chal- 
lenged by the plaintiff." Mr. Rich leaves the jury box. 
The clerk then draws another name from the box, and 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 19 

announces it, and the new man takes the seat vacated 
by Mr. Rich. 

The clerk next calls out "Mr. Gay is challenged by 
the defendant." 1 Mr. Gay leaves the jury box. The 
clerk draws another name from the box, and announces 
it, and the new man takes the seat vacated by Mr. Gay. 

The clerk then says to the attorneys: "Is the jury 
satisfactory?" The attorneys answer "It is." 

When the "twelve good men and true" are all seated, 
the judge regards them earnestly over his glasses and 
pretends to consult an imaginary list of their names, 
addresses and occupations. Finally, he selects the name 
of the foreman and instructs the clerk to announce it. 
The clerk says, "John Jones, the court appoints you 
foreman for this trial of this case." Thereupon the 
man chosen takes his place at the extreme right on the 
front jury bench. 2 

Swearing in the plaintiff and his witnesses is next 
in order. One by one, as the plaintiff's lawyer calls 
them, they take their places in front of the jury, facing 
the judge. They are then told to hold up their right 
hands, while the clerk says, "You severally solemnly 
swear that the evidence you shall give the court and the 
jury in the case now in hearing shall be the truth, the 
whole truth and nothing but the truth. So help you 
God." They answer in unison, "I do." 

One witness says: "I am a Hebrew and am un- 
accustomed to swear in the manner of the Gentiles." 

1 In a real court, after a certain number of names have been 
challenged, reasons must be given for any objection. 

2 The swearing in of the whole group of jurymen drafted for 
a civil session is done at the beginning of the session rather 
than for each individual case. 



20 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

The clerk says : "Put on your hat." When the wit- 
ness has put on his hat, the clerk says: 

' ' You solemnly swear that the evidence you shall give 
to the court and jury in this case shall be the truth, 
the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. And this 
you do upon the five books of Moses. So help you 
Jehovah!" He answers "I do." 

After the witnesses have returned to their appointed' 
places, one of the plaintiff's attorneys takes the writ 
in his hand and says slowly, so that the judge can write 
down in his book the name of the case and etc.: "May 
it please your Honor, this is No. 11648. The court is 
dated July 6, 1916. It is an action of tort. The plain- 
tiff is Henry S. West of Melrose, and the defendant is 
Louis North of Magnolia, in Gloucester. The ad dam- 
num is $25,000. 

The declaration is as follows:* 

(He takes declaration and reads it.) The answer is 
as follows: 

(He takes answer and reads it.) He then says: 

"Will it please your Honor, Mr. Foreman, and Gentle- 
men of the Jury." He then goes on with his statement 
of the case. (See page 27.) 

As he does this he faces the jury with an occasional 
courteous turning to the judge. Next he calls the plain- 
tiff to the stand, and moving as far away as the sheriff's 
desk, instructs him to speak loudly for the benefit of the 
court. Following this examination, opportunity is given 
for the defendant 's lawyer to cross-examine the plaintiff. 
Both a model examination and cross-examination is given 
at the end of this chapter, from which it will be possible 
for a bright mock attorney to plan his questions. 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 21 

Now each witness takes his turn on the stand, and it 
will add much to the entertainment if he is not coached 
beforehand as to the questions he must answer in his 
examination and cross-examination. He is, for the time 
being, impersonating the character described in the brief 
provided him, and if he becomes entangled, it only adds 
a realistic touch to the scene. 

After all testimony for the plaintiff's case is in, the 
attorney says, "That is all. Your Honor," and resumes 
his place at his desk. Now the first lawyer for the 
defense takes the floor and proceeds exactly in the same 
manner as the plaintiff's lawyer, swearing in the defend- 
ant and his witnesses, stating his case (see page 35), ex- 
amining and allowing cross-examination. 

Throughout the trial all four attorneys must be watch- 
ing sharply for objectionable testimony by the other 
side. They may object to any hearsay evidence or any 
evidence calculated to affect the juror's sympathy rather 
than his judgment. The form for this is "I object, Your 
Honor." The judge then decides it one way or another. 
If there is a real stenographer in the demonstration the 
judge, before giving his decision, may first ask her to 
read the question objected to. This she does in a 
monotonous voice without rising. If the stenographer 
is only a figurehead, the lawyer may say "I object to that 
testimony being recorded, Your Honor," and if the judge 
agrees, the stenographer may pretend to cross it off. 
They must also watch for an attempt by the opposing 
lawyer to put words into a witness' mouth, and they 
must cut off sharply any tendency in their own witnesses 
to go into unnecessary details. 

When the evidence for both sides is in, the lawyer for 



22 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

the defendant makes the first plea, the lawyer for the 
plaintiff having the second plea. 

Although in a real case, this is the place for a bit of 
legal wrangling, it will be best in this demonstration, 
to proceed at once with the judge's charge to the jury. 
His Honor rises, and with great deliberation, takes off 
his spectacles, which he folds and unfolds as he says: 
"Gentlemen of the Jury (they rise and remain stand- 
ing) : In this case of West vs. North I must remind you 
that the law is for the defense of rich and poor alike. 
Your judgment should be influenced by sanity rather 
than sympathy. Your decision made on fact rather 
than on feeling. In j^our considerations be careful to 
start with a proper premise or your reasoning will wan- 
der far afield, etc, etc." 

As the judge resumes his seat the clerk calls the jury 
officer to step forward and hold up his right hand. This 
he does, standing in front of the jury. The clerk says 
"You shall take charge of this jury and keep them to- 
gether in some convenient place until they are agreed. 
You shall not speak to them yourself or suffer any one 
to speak to them except by order of the court or to ask 
them if they have agreed. So help you God." 

The officer now leads the jury into an adjoining room 
where they are supposed to deliberate. It will be most 
interesting to leave the verdict in the case to be really 
settled by the twelve jury men, also the amount of 
damages, if the verdict is for the plaintiff. However, if 
five minutes does not see the decision made, the foreman 
must take matters into his own hands, as time is valuable 
at a mock trial. In civil suits it is customary for the 
verdict to be written and passed to the clerk, as the 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 23 

jury re-enters the room. The clerk passes it to the judge 
and the judge, having read it to himself, passes it back 
to the clerk. The clerk says, "Gentlemen of the jury, 
harken to your verdict as the court has recorded it." 
The clerk reads it aloud and then says: "So say you, 
Mr. Foreman, and so say you all. " They nod assent. 

Now while all stand, the crier says in a loud voice : 
' ' Hear ye ! Hear ye ! Hear ye ! All persons having 
anything to do before the Honorable, the Justices of the 
Superior Court now holden at Boston within and for the 
County of Suffolk, hence depart and give their attend- 
ance to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock, to which time 
and place this session of the court now stands adjourned. 
God save the Commonwealth of Massachusetts!" 

The judge leaves the bench, and accompanied by the 
sheriff, marches out as he came in, followed by the other 
participants of the court scene. 

MODEL TRIAL LIST 
Middlesex ss. : 

SUPERIOR COURT 
Special Jury Sessions 
Cases assigned for Speedy Trial for week beginning Mon- 
day, May 2nd, 1920. 
Revised to Tuesday, May 25 

Plaintiff Attorneys Defendant Attorneys 

1. C. B. Tavlor 11991 Joy &'Co. v. Bliss Andrews & Andrews 

2. Baker & Cook 11896 Tempest v. Storm Robert James 

3. Samuel Carver 12137 Black v. White W. B. Herbert, L. C. 

4. Shepard & Lamb 9276 Moon v. Night Roy 

5. John Carpenter 10296 Frost v. Snow Horace F. Edwards 

6. Sawyer & Joiner 11542 Light v. Day Jacobs & Isaacs 

7. Chas. Mason, Ed Benj. Thomas 

Plumber 11648 West v. North Rav Thomas, Jas. 

8. F. J. Butcher 10963 Bell v. Cross Roberts 

9. Steward & Butler 9087 Hay v. Stone Moses B. Williams 

10. T. P. Farmer 12235 Dawn v. East Dana & Allen 

11. Jonothan S. Gardner 11431 Wpbb v. Foot Peter Lewis 

12. B. Wheelwright 10402 Hill v. Dale Chas. G. Everett 

13. Arthur Clark B. H. E. Michaels 

Smith 10930 Thorne v. Briar Richards & Phillips 

14. Herbert Miller 9163 Gold v. Silver Francis Howard 

Highest number reached: — 12568, Page 18 of May List. 



24 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

Special Brief I. When the clerk reads "11991 Joy 
& Co. vs. Bliss, ' ' the attorney will answer : ' ' The plain- 
tiff is ready, Your Honor. ' ' No one answers for the de- 
fendant. 

The judge says to him, "What do you wish done 
with this case?" The attorney answers: "I ask for 
a default." The judge says to the clerk, "Let the de- 
fendant be called." The clerk says to the officer, "Mr. 
Officer, call the defendant in Joy and another versus 
Bliss." The officer calls out. "Little Bliss! Little 
Bliss! Come into court and answer to the cause of the 
Grand Joy and another against you, or your default will 
be recorded. ' ' 

Special Brief II. When the clerk reads "11896, 
Tempest vs. Storm," the attorney will say, "Your 
Honor, as the most important witness for the defense 
is unable to be present, I ask that the case be post- 
poned for one week. The plaintiff's attorney consents 
to this." 

The judge says: "The case may be postponed for 
one week." 

Special Brief III. When the clerk reads "10296, 
Black vs. White," the person will say: "Mr. Jacobs, 
who will try this case for the defendant is actually 
engaged in the trial of a case in the second session." 
The judge will say : ' ' The case may stand. ' ' 

Special Brief IV. When the clerk reads: "11542, 
Light vs. Day," the defendant's attorney will say: 
"The defendant is ready." No one answers for the 
plaintiff. 

The judge says to the attorney "What do you wish 
done ? ' ' The attorney answers : "I ask for a non-suit . ' ' 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 25 

The judge says to the clerk : "Let the plaintiff be called. 
"The clerk says to the officer: "Mr. Officer, call the 
plaintiff in Light v. Day." The officer calls out: 
"Bright Light! Bright Light! Come into court and 
prosecute your action against Gray Day, or your non- 
suit will be recorded." 

COMMON BRIEF 

Henry S. West vs. Louis North 

About On the afternoon of June 23, 1916, Henry 

2.30 p. m. S. West, owner and operator of a Ford 

About taxicab, was driving said taxi at a mod- 

10 Miles erate speed along South Street in the City 

an hour. of Melrose. As he approached the corner 

About where South Street is crossed by East, he 

5 Miles reduced his speed and blew his horn. 

an hour. Hearing no horn or other sound from any 

approaching vehicle on East Street, and 

. being unable, because of the intervening 

houses to see any danger, he continued on 

his way. When a little more than half 

way across East Street he was struck by 

a Locomobile owned and driven by one 

Louis North of Magnolia, Mass. 

As West attempted to extricate himself 
from behind the wheel he was thrown vio- 
lently a distance of some twenty feet, and 
sustained grave injuries 'from striking 
against the stone foundation of a house 
situated on the right hand side of South 
Street. His taxicab was hurled in the op- 
posite direction and was entirely shattered 



26 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

and rendered unrepairable by coming in 
contact with the granite bank wall sur- 
rounding a house on the left side of South 
Street. Henry West, in an unconscious 
condition, was taken to the Montrose Hos- 
pital, where he was found to have a broken 
nose, a dislocated elbow, deep gashes on 
the right cheek and a badly wrenched back, 
from which injuries he has since suffered 
severely both in body and mind. He brings 
suit to recover $25,000 for damages from 
Louis North. 

DECLARATION 

Commonwealth of Massachusetts 

Suffolk ss. : Superior Court 

Henry S. West 

vs. 

Louis North 

Plaintiff's Declaration 

Count 1. And now comes the plaintiff and says that 

on or about June 23, 1916, he was driving his taxicab 

along South Street in Melrose in the County of Middlesex 

and said Commonwealth; that while he was driving across 

East Street, in said Melrose, and in the exercise of due 

care, a Locomobile, owned and operated by the defendant, 

owing to the negligence of the defendant, violently ran 

into the said taxicab of the plaintiff whereby the plaintiff 

was thrown from said taxicab, and severely injured in 

body and mind. 

And the plaintiff says that by reason of his said injury 
he has suffered great financial loss and has been incapac- 
itated for his usual occupations. 
All to his great damage. 
Count 2. And the plaintiff says that by reason of the 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 27 

negligent act of the defendant, set forth in Count 1 the 
said taxicab was greatly damaged. 

By his Attorneys, 

Chas. Mason- 
Ed. Plumber 

DECLARATION 

Commonwealth of Massachusetts 

Suffolk ss. : Supreme Court 

Henry S. West 

vs. 

Louis North 

Defendant's Answer 

And now comes the defendant in the above entitled case 
and for answer denies each and every allegation in the 
plaintiff's writ and declaration contained. 
By his Attornys, 

Ray Thomas 
J as. Roberts 

STATEMENT OF CASE BY PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY 

We shall show that Henry S. West was known to be a 
careful driver, that he never allowed his speed to exceed 
the interurban regulation of fifteen miles an hour, and that 
it was his invariable custom to blow his horn as he ap- 
proached a cross street. 

We shall show that this accident destroyed his means of 
livelihood, not only by the loss of his uninsured car, but 
because of the injuries which he sustained in body and 
mind; that as a result of the frightful shock and also of 
the injuries to the spine, he has been unable since June, 
1916 to pursue his former occupation of hackney driving 
or driving of any other kind. We shall show that he has 
incurred great expense for medical attendance, and that as 
a result of the accident he has been unable since June, 1916 
to retain any other position which would procure for him 
a living wage. 



28 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

We shall show that Louis North had on that day and 
at several other times been known to exceed the lawful 
speed limit, that he neglected to blow his horn, not only 
when crossing South Street, but also when crossing Front 
Street, two streets further down, on the day of the acci- 
dent. We shall show by the testimony of a traffic officer 
that he not only neglected to blow his horn, but that he did 
not reduce his speed in crossing Front Street. We shall 
show that on that same afternoon he proved his brutal 
disregard for the comfort of others by running over a pet 
cat belonging to Miss Priscilla Perkins, living at 91 East 
Street. We shall show that, although North must have 
been cognizant of having crushed the cat under the wheels 
of his ear, he stopped neither to apologize nor reimburse 
the owner; nor did he at the time nor at any later period 
show concern or regret at having wrought such havoc in the 
life of Henry S. West. 

MODEL QUESTIONS FOR EXAMINING WITNESSES 
What is your name? 
What is your age? 
What is your residence? 
Where were you born? 
Are you married? 
How many children? 
What is your occupation? 
Where are you employed? 
What education? (if professional) 
What technical training? 

What are your relations to the plaintiff or defendant? 
How long have you known him ? 
Tell the story of the accident in your own words. 
Please omit unnecessary details. 
Please answer "yes" or "no." 
Please speak distinctly. Etc. 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 29 

PLAINTIFF'S EVIDENCE ON DIRECT 
EXAMINATION * 

My name is Henry S. West. I am 41 years old and I 
was born in Smithtown, Nova Scotia. I came to the States 
fifteen years ago and my occupation has been hackney driv- 
ing ever since, or at least, up to the time of the accident. 

In 1912 I bought my first Ford car — not the one de- 
stroyed — and was married the same year. I had two chil- 
dren, but lost both, one by infantile paralysis and the 
"flu" took the other. Soon after that my wife was taken 
sick and so was I, and what with the doctor's bills and 
undertakers, I couldn't save a cent. I got behind in the 
rent and my wife took to going to the movies all the time 
after the children died, and if I got a square meal at all 
I had to get it at a restaurant, and that costs a lot more 
than eating at home. Then during the war every one was 
after me to buy Liberty bonds and thrift stamps and I was 
near distracted, and didn't feel that I ought to keep up the 
insurance on my car. I bought my last car in 1915 and it 
used all my savings to make up the difference between 
that one and the old one. Yes, the new car was second- 
hand, too. 

No, I never heard a sound until I got by that corner 
and then I see that Loco too late. No, I am not deef. No, 
the flu left me all right, but my wife's eyes were left bad 
and glasses cost a lot. 

No, I didn't speed her up when I saw what was coming 
to me. All I could do was to get out from behind the 
wheel and if I hadn't done that, I wouldn't be here now. 
I don't know whether North saw me or not. I don't see 
how he could have helped it and he must have heard my 
horn unless he is deef. I didn't know anything more until 
I came to myself at the hospital and then I saw my wife 
and a nurse and the doctor. I ached so I didn't know 

* This testimony, like that of the subsequent witnesses, is, of 
course, not given in this connected form, but in response to ques- 
tions by his own attorney. 



30 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

where I ached. I couldn't get off the bed without I rolled 
off on account of my back and I was cold all the time I 
was in the hospital and I didn't get enough to eat there. 
I begged the doctor to take me home and he did after four 
days. I had the doctor regular for a month and then I 
went to his office off and on for three months. 

He has never sent his bill. I guess he hopes to get it 
paid later. No, I can't get a job as chauffeur — my back 
ain't right. I have dizzy spells and besides I'm scared. 
The dizzy spells come on most any time, but are pretty 
bad when I first get up in the morning. Yes, I tried to 
drive a horse but that ain't no use. I've never been well 
since. I mow a few lawns but it is awful hard stooping 
over to do the trimming — hurts my back. 

(Note that West makes a constant effort to run into 
details.) 

CROSS EXAMINATION OF PLAINTIFF 

Attorney for Defense: "Mr. West, did I understand you 

to say that since June 23, 1916, you have never been 

a well man?" 
West : "Yes, sir." 

Att: "From what have you mostly suffered?" 
West: "I don't know which is worse, my back or them 

dizzy spells. One is always with me and the other 

always comes at the wrong time." 
Att: "Mr. West, did you ever think you had a touch of 

rheumatism along with everything else?" 
Att. for plaintiff: "I object to that question, Your Honor." 
Judge: "I think the question is allowable." 
Att. for defense: "Mr. West, did you ever think you had 

a touch of rheumatism along with everything else?" 
West: "Well, at times I have thought I might have a 

touch, but I took two bottles of Brown's Rheumatism 

Elixer and it didn't do no good." 
Att: "Has there been no time since the summer of 1916 

that you have called yourself well at all?" 
West: "Oh, no." 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 31 

Att: "Think carefully— not a week or two?" 

West : "Not a day, sir." 

Att : (Holding up a paper and moving toward the wit- 
ness) "Do you recognize this, Mr. West?" 

West: "I can't say I do." 

Att : "It is your application for a private chauffeur's 
license dated April 18, 1917, in which you state that you 
are in good health." 

West : 'That so !" 

Att: "Is this your application?" (showing it to him). 

West : "I suppose so." 

Att : "Yes or no, please." 

West : "Yes." 

Att : "Were you in good health at the time you made this 
out?" 

West : "I don't know." 

Att: "You don't know? Were you or were you not in 
good health at this time— April 18, 1917?" 

West: "I wasn't." 

Att: "Then you deliberately stated what was untrue?" 

West: "I don't remember." 

Att : "Did you or did you not make a false statement at 
that time?" 

West : "I suppose so." 

Att: "Answer yes or no. Did you make a false state- 
ment on this paper?" 

West : "Yes." 

Att : "That will do." 

DR. PILLSBURY'S EVIDENCE ON DIRECT 
EXAMINATION 

''My name is Aconite Pillsbury. I am 39 years old. 
Residence, 182 East Street, Melrose, Mass. Born at Turner 
Corners, Maine — graduated from Bates College and Bos- 
ton University Medical School. An interne two years at 
the Boston Homeopathic Hospital. I have been practicing 
in Melrose ten years on January next. 



32 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

On the afternoon of June 23, 1916 I was just leaving 
my home after keeping office hours, when one of my small 
neighbors came running toward me -crying, "Come quick, 
Doctor, there's a man killed up the street." I grabbed 
my satchel and followed the lad. I found West lying in 
an unconscious condition completely surrounded by a fast 
gathering crowd. I pushed my way through, and ascer- 
tained immediately that he was still alive. After a casual 
examination I felt confident that his injuries were not 
fatal. I made no effort to bring bim to consciousness 
until the ambulance had deposited him at the hospital. 
There we gave him a careful examination and found a 
broken nose, dislocated elbow, gashes on the right cheek, 
a badly twisted spine, and many other bruises particularly 
on the right upper arm and shoulder. I knew that he was 
suffering chiefly from his back by his actions under ex- 
amination. This proved true. His back was as near 
being broken as possible. 

Yes, any injury to the spine is most unfortunate. Oh, 
yes, there is possibility of complete recovery but it is 
neither easily or quickly accomplished. 

Yes, I have attended West from time to time since the 
accident. No, he was not my patient previous to that. 
I can make no statement on his general health up to the 
23rd of June, 1916. Yes, undoubtedly the dizziness to 
which he refers is one result of the accident. Yes, his 
whole nervous system was badly upset, naturally, the spine 
being the nerve center. No, he has never to my knowl- 
edge been in good health since that time. 

Yes, I believe he has suffered both in body and mind. 

I should prefer to make no predictions as to the future. 

I have never sent him a bill for services because I knew 
he would be unable to pay it. 

Yes, it has been my custom since practicing to rebate 
many bills to the poor or unfortunate. If I sent West 
a bill it would be in the neighborhood of $500. 

I should consider that a conservative price for the serv- 
ices rendered." 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 33 

POLICEMAN JOHN CASEY'S EVIDENCE ON 
DIRECT EXAMINATION 

"My name is John Casey — 49 years old. I was born 
in Cliarlestown, Mass. My parents were from County 
Galway in Ireland. I think they came to this country be- 
fore I was born — I guess you're right, sir. 

I have been on the Melrose police force for fifteen years 
and I have lived in Melrose about that same time more or 
less. Yes, sir, you have to be a resident to get a job on the 
force. Yes, I have lived in Melrose fifteen years, sir, more 
or less, sir, as I have said. Have it your own way, sir. 
I have lived more than fifteen years in Melrose, then. 

The day of the accident I had just come on duty for the 
afternoon. No, we don't keep an officer there all day, 
sir, there is more riding out in the afternoon than in the 
morning. I particular noticed that automobile — I do ad- 
mire a Loco. It was sure going twenty-five or thirty at 
least. Oh, I can judge pretty nigh, sir. 

I would have give chase on my motor cycle, only we 
don't have them out our way, for the force I mean. Then 
I was hindered from being present at the accident by hav- 
ing to remain on my corner. I could see the crowd gather- 
ing up the street and I ses to myself, ses I, 'He's winged 
some one — I thought as much. He might have winged me 
if I hadn't stepped out of the way. Some one's took 
your place, Casey, ses I. I hope he's not hurt too bad, 
ses I. God help him.' 

No he never caught me eye at all as he passed me. No, 
I don't think he saw me. He was one of those chaps that 
don't see anything they do see. 

My whistle — yes, I had one. No, I don't mind now 
whether I blew it or not; but on second thought I did not 
blow it. Ye see it was like this — He comes along so 
fast that he takes my breath, as ye say. Why didn't I 
blow the whistle just the same? Wasn't I telling you that 
he took me breath. Where would I get it then to blow 
me whistle? I'm sorry, Your Honor, I meant no offense. 



34 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

It's just my way to have me little joke — no offense, sir. 
I have known West for a great many years — must be 
fifteen more or less. He was always a good honest, ac- 
commodating chap. Speed? Lord, no. Many's the time 
I ses to him, 'Henry, look sharp or ye meet yourself com- 
ing back!' Blow his horn 1 ? I should say so. I always 
thought he had a hankering after that horn. 'Twas always 
with him. Yes, he's been all broke up, late years. I tried 
to get him something from the highway department. Walk- 
ing the flag in front of the steam roller, but, no, it couldn't 
be done. The boss ses to me, ses he 'John, we've run 
over one flag man already in this town and that's enough.' " 

MISS PRISCILLA PERKINS' EVIDENCE ON 
DIRECT EXAMINATION 

"My name is Priscilla Perkins. I am forty-six years old. 
I live at 91 East Street, Melrose, Mass. I have always 
lived in Melrose — I was born there, in the same house 
which we now occupy. My grandfather built it 65 years 
ago. It was my grandfather who planted the elms in our 
neighborhood. I really have no occupation — I really keep 
house for my mother. I am her companion. 

On June 23rd, 1916, I was sitting at the window that 
looks down East Street and Mama was sitting so that she 
could look up the same street. Yes, both windows are 
on the East Street side of the house. We had just remarked 
to one another that there was getting to be so much motor- 
ing past the house that one could hardly accomplish a bit 
of needlework in an afternoon. I mean if one glanced up 
from one's work at every passing car. 

Yes, we had two beautiful pet cats, perfect darlings, 
tawny tigers with identical markings. We had raised them 
from kittens and had named them Daisy and Demi after 
Meg's twins in "Little Women." That afternoon Demi 
had insisted on going out and it seemed a strange thing, 
but Daisy had run back in again when we held the door 
for them. We felt that it was beautifully providential 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 35 

because Daisy was Mama's idol and I can't think how she 
could have borne it. Yes, my especial pet was Demi. 

Oh, yes, j'ou were asking if I saw the Locomobile. Yes, 
I spied it from my window. It was a beautifully shiny, 
new one and it fairly tore up the street. Of course, I 
could not see it after it flashed by my window, and then I 
heard poor Mama scream and as I rushed to her, the car 
had disappeared. She was thankful that I had not seen 
darling Demi's last moment, but I felt that I had more 
strength to bear it than she. Our kind friends and neigh- 
bors gathered up his remains, and they assured me that 
it must have been over so quickly that the precious kitty 
knew nothing about it really. Of course, we should have 
appreciated any little word of regret from the Norths, but 
then, as Mama said, it might have been a little difficult 
for them to ascertain our address as they did not stop at 
the time. As for compensation — we could never have 
thought of that in any case. I told Mama that if we were 
offered any reimbursement it should all go to buy Daisy 
a beautiful new basket, but poor Daisy is gone now too. 
She — oh, yes, we knew Henry West well. He always drove 
us to the cemetery on fine Sundays. He had for years. 
It seemed strange that he should have been struck by the 
same bolt from the blue. Oh, no, he never drove rapidly. 
Dear yes, he blew his horn all the time. It was a very 
unpleasant horn, too. 

STATEMENT OF CASE BY ATTORNEY FOR 
DEFENSE 

We shall show that Louis North of Magnolia and Boston 
is a prominent and much respected business man — a banker 
— that, by the testimony of his mother, who was the only 
other occupant of the car, he was driving within the legal 
limit of speed on the day of the accident; and that he 
heard no horn or other sound from an approaching vehicle 
as he was about to cross South Street, and that when he 
saw West's taxicab it was too late to change his course. 



36 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

We shall show that he stood ready at the time and at a later 
period to reimburse or settle with West in any way that 
seemed right and reasonable. We shall show that West, 
who was known to be slow and lacking in resources, made 
no effort to put on speed when he saw his plight, but 
rather, helplessly allowed himself to be struck. 

We shall show that West was not necessarily disqualified 
for further usefulness and that the amount demanded by 
him for damages is far in excess of what is right. 

DEFENDANT'S EVIDENCE ON DIRECT 
EXAMINATION 

"My name is Louis North — 36 years old. Residence, 
Brookside, Magnolia, Massachusetts. Unmarried. Mother 
living, no father. Junior member of firm of North, Creed 
and North, Bankers, 83 State Street. I own and drive 
a Locomobile and several cars. I am licensed in Massa- 
chusetts. No, I have never appeared in court charged 
with speeding. Yes, I have been summoned. I don't know 
what my lawyer did about it. 

I don't know how fast I was driving on June 23, 1916. 
I seldom notice. Yes, I usually go slowly through a 
town. I saw no cat at the first street. Yes, I have paid 
for several. I saw no traffic officer at the second street. 
I heard no horn. No, I have no recollection of it. No, I 
believe my hearing is perfect. Yes, I hear that clock tick 
distinctly. I couldn't stop; the fellow ran right under my 
wheels. Yes, my head lights were smashed and there were 
other damages to the Locomobile. I don't remember what 
they cost. No, I sold that car some time ago. I have for- 
gotten what I was paid for it. Yes, my mother was badly 
frightened but she is very nervous and a bit irrational 
at times.. 

Yes, I stopped and would have given West money but 
he was unconscious. I didn't inquire about his condition 
later because I expected he would sue me. I think $25,000 
exorbitant. His car was not worth a hundred and his 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 37 

bills cannot be more than twice as much. Yes, I offered 
to settle out of court. He refused through his lawyer." 
(Note that North answers as little as possible and often 
says "I don't remember.") 

MRS. NORTH'S EVIDENCE ON DIRECT 
EXAMINATION 

"My name is uillian Lowell North. 56 years old. Born 
and brought up in Baltimore, Maryland. My husband was 
Cabot North. He has been dead sixteen years. My resi- 
dence is 96S Beacon Street. No, I do not stay with my son 
at Magnolia, except for short visits. I dislike the fogs. 
I go occasionally to look after the servants and see that 
the place is being kept up. I was on my way for that 
purpose on the 23rd of June, 1916. 

No, my son was not driving rapidly. Oh, about fifteen 
or twenty. I could see the speedometer from where I sat. 
Yes, I saw the Ford, but I heard no horn. I think I am 
not deaf. 

Yes, I was much upset by the accident, and so, I am 
sure, was my son, but he is very taciturn by nature. He 
is like his father who for days would not be heard to 
make a remark, but his was a kind heart. No, I never 
knew Louis to hurt anything intentionally. Yes, he loves 
his dogs and horses and never strikes them unless it is 
necessary. Oh, yes, it is sometimes necessary to whip a 
dog or a horse, don't you think so? I remember at one 
time — Oh, yes. Of course, you wouldn't care to hear 
now. 

I never knew that my son had the reputation for speed- 
ing. Well, yes, I rather like to go rapidly myself. I am 
sure I regret the accident. It quite upset me for some 
time I assure you. I telephoned the hospital the next day 
and they said West was doing well. We were so relieved 
that we didn't have the misfortune — I mean that he did not 
have the misfortune to die. I recall that I meant to send 
him some flowers but neglected to do it." 



38 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

Cross Examination of Mrs. North 

Att: "Mrs. North, do you always wear glasses'?" 

Mrs. N. : "Yes, oh yes, for a good many years." 

Att : "Is it a muscular weakness or are you perhaps near- 
sighted?" 

Mrs. N : "I am afraid it is my age — just a fading vision." 

Att: "You perhaps have two kinds of glasses — one for 
reading and another for distance?" 

Mrs. N: 'Yes, I do." 

Att: "Which were you wearing the day of the accident?" 

Mrs. N: "Oh, my distance glasses. I always do when 
driving." 

Att. "You say you noticed the speedometer and that it 
registered fifteen or twenty. Can you recall which ?" 

Mrs N. : "Oh, no, it was so long ago but I am sure it was 
not more than that." 

Att: "Would you have remonstrated with your son had it 
been more?" 

Mrs. N; "Oh, no, I should hesitate to do that." 

Att: "Because as you say, you enjoy fast driving your- 
self?" 

Mrs. N: ''No, no. Louis would have been much annoyed 
if I had done such a thing." 

Att: "That is never your custom then?" 

Mrs. N: "Oh, no!" 

Att: "Are you wearing your distance glasses today?" 

Mrs. N: "Yes." 

Att: (holding up a card and walking toward the witness 
stand) "Can you distinguish the figures on this card at 
this distance?" 

Mrs. N: "I am afraid I can not." 

Att: "At this distance then?" (walking nearer) 

Mrs. N: "No;" 

Att : "You have had your glasses changed perhaps several 
times since the summer of 1916?" 

Mrs. N: "I think so, once at least." 
. Att : "You say you think so. Are you not sure of it ?" 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 39 

Mrs. N: "I can't remember just when it was that I was 

last at the oculist." 
Att: "You do not recall realizing any necessity for so 

doing v 
Mrs. N: "Why no, I do not." 
Att : "You would say that your vision had remained about 

the same, for several years." 
Mrs. N: "Yes, I think so." 
Att : "Thank you, that is all." 

Author's Note : It must be seen that the possibilities for 
further witnesses and further testimony in this case have 
not been exhausted. Expert medical or automobile testi- 
mony may be added and much further data for the defense. 
Imaginary witnesses of the accident and friends of both 
men might be called — West's wife or North's partners. 
Cross-examination may also be supplied, where it is now 
lacking. 

THE PLEA OF THE DEFENDANT'S LAWYER 

My opponent, the attorney for the plaintiff, will say 
much of rights — the rights of the poor and afflicted. I 
ask you, are there no rights for any other class of people 
in this country? Shall we give consideration only to the 
weak and unresourcef ul ? Shall we, in fact, put a premium 
on inefficiency and laziness? On the other hand, because 
a man has by industry and ability accumulated a large 
fortune shall we point- the finger of shame at him and 
make him the butt of whining complaints? 

I can not understand by what right one man questions 
another's right to spend his own fortune as he chooses. 
I could, with equally bad taste, question my colleague's 
decision to spend twenty-five cents on a smoke. And I 
should have as much right to do so as he has to question 
Mr. North's decision to spend twenty : five thousand on a 
jewel, if he so desired. 

It is truly pitiful, I grant you, the picture that will 
be painted of this poor fellow, too slow-witted and too 



40 STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 

unskilled in driving even a Ford, to be able to touch his 
foot to the accelerator and so clear the way and save his 
own skin. The ordinary driver could have turned his car 
sharply to the left and so avoided collision. Then having 
sustained injuries, slight in proportion to the chances he 
took, he brings suit for what to him is a fortune. Talk 
about the unearned increment of the rich — twenty-five thou- 
sand dollars would be, in this case, an undeserved increment 
of the poor. 

Mark you, the defendant stood ready to make amends, 
whether he justly should or not, for the unfortunate hap- 
pening of the 23rd of June, 1916; but our sharp friends 
would have none of it. No, they were angling for a big 
fish — but the bait was too large even for a big fish to swallow. 

Gentlemen of the Jury, I resent for you the implication 
which my opponents have cast upon you — that you are 
women to be moved by the untimely demise of a pet kitty. 
Has it come to that pass that only "sob stuff" is produced 
as evidence before the Honorable, the Justices of this Su- 
perior Court? Right is right — justice is justice. Etc. 

LAWYER'S PLEA (PLAINTIFF) 

Your Honor, and Gentlemen of the Jury, — if you have 

• followed the testimony given in this case with the attention 

that is due its importance, no words of mine are needed to 

convince you at whose door the blame lies nor what the 

rights of the case are. 

Imagine for a moment an honest man struggling for 
years against great odds, such as competition in business, 
the high cost of living, and family bereavements, until it 
seemed that the wolf, which he was endeavoring to drive 
from the door, was almost to break and enter. Imagine 
this honest man going patiently about his tasks each day 
always hoping for better times. Imagine him being sud- 
denly — not lifted up, but struck down further and inextrica- 
bly in the mire of misery. By his own fault? Far from 
it. By the careless, cruel, casual deed of a cold, calculating 



STORY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT 41 

millionaire, a man looking neither to the right or left in 
consideration of his fellow-creatures. A man who shows 
as little sympathy for a lonely woman's household pet as 
he does for an honest man's life and fortune. 

What are we coming to in this world? What are we 
coming to in this country of ours, dedicated to the rights 
and happiness of free men? I ask you, could the injustice 
and greed of the feudal lords of other lands go further in 
ruthless deeds than this violation of the rights of the poor 
and the weak? 

My client, after years of suffering caused by this man's 
deed, and after many ineffectual attempts to win a. living 
by the toil of a broken body, is asking a sum for damages 
which is no more than this millionaire would lose or win 
in one day at the races. You have heard with your own 
ears that the price of a Locomobile is such a negligible 
sum to him that he cannot even recall its amount, and 
yet he contests this honest man's rightful demands. What 
would bring joy and happiness to West's home and com- 
forts for the remaining days of his broken life — what to 
North is not more than the price of a jewel he might pur- 
chase for a gift — this he refuses. 

Gentlemen, the facts stand out so plainly that I will not 
take your time with their repetition, but as you value your 
reputations as good men and true ; as you value your record 
in the book of the Recording Angel, return a just and 
faithful verdict in this case. 



CHAPTER III 
THE STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

As a town develops, increasing in population and 
expanding- its industries, it reaches a point where the 
town meeting is no longer adequate as a legislative body. 
It can be plainly seen that were all the voters to gather 
in one assembly, as in the past, it would make a throng 
too unwieldy for direct action. Therefore the repre- 
sentation of the many by the few must be resorted to. 
A larger corps of public officials than the time honored 
board of selectmen is needed also to carry on the ever 
increasing mass of public business. 

The city government is the solution. The state legisla- 
ture must first be petitioned for its consent to this change 
and if permission is granted — a referendum, to ascertain 
the will of the people, is the next step. 

The charter, not unlike the constitution of a society, 
is drawn up by a chosen board of citizens, although 
formerly the embryo city accepted very much what the 
state legislature dictated. Great importance is attached 
to the charter because it not only states what form of 
government the city shall have, but also contains the 
fundamental laws by which the citizens must abide. 
Of course, the laws conform, in great part, to those of 
the state and the nation. 

42 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 43 

The three branches of government — executive, legisla- 
tive and judicial — are to be found in every city in the 
United States in some form or other. The attempt will 
be made to give in a general way the idea and machin- 
ery of the various forms of city government as are 
found throughout the country. 

The more common and more generally known form is 
that of the mayor-council, with the executive power 
vested in the former and the legislative in the latter. 

There was a time when the mayor was only a figure- 
head as far as real action was concerned, his heaviest 
duty being to preside over the meetings of the other 
body. However, as the need of checks and balances 
became more and more imperative with the results of the 
onesided control of the council the charters of many 
cities were changed, thereby giving more power to the 
mayor. Both the council and the mayor are elected by 
the registered voters. In some communities the name 
of the candidate for mayor is placed upon the ballot 
sheet by means of nominating petitions, as in Boston, 
while in other cities by means of the direct primary. 

The mayor, as a general rule, in the smaller cities of 
the country, is elected for a term of one or two years, 
and may be a candidate for reelection. In other cities 
like New York and Boston, the term of office is four 
years which, of course, gives a man or woman, as the 
case may be, ample time to demonstrate to his constit- 
uents his ability as an administrator. The office of 
mayor in the smaller cities is sought after by candidates 
more for the honor than for the - salary, and in a great 
number of places the incumbent of the position must 
have an outside business in order to financially support 



44 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

himself. The salaries of the office of mayor range from 
the meager sum of $500 to $15,000. 

Under the plan of the mayor-council government all 
administrative authority of the council is taken from the 
council and is placed with the mayor. He becomes di- 
rectly responsible for the preservation of law and order 
and for the development of all departments in the city 
toward the highest point of efficiency. He has powers of 
appointment and removal of heads of departments and 
of all assistants; the right of veto of by-laws and ordi- 
nances is his. He also receives the budget from the 
heads of departments and in turn presents it to the 
council, although as an exception to' this statement in 
Boston, the mayor makes up the budget himself and 
presents it to the council for approval. 

The mayor has the right to address the legislative 
body of government either by message or by communica- 
tion. It is thus that he enters indirectly into the en- 
actment of legislation through the acceptance possibly, 
of some of his suggestions and admonitions in the an- 
nual message, or the communications from time to time. 
On the other hand his power of veto makes him a real 
factor directly in the development of legislation. There 
are many more minor duties which a mayor has to per- 
form, and of course he is the official representative of the 
city on all public occasions. 

The council of a city is the legislative branch of the 
government and its size and procedure of meetings varies 
with the city, in which it functions. It is a partisan 
body and a great many times its ordinances, orders and 
petitions are passed or defeated according to a party 
vote. The council meets weekly in some cities, while 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 45 

in others, perhaps the smaller, twice a month. Gener- 
ally the council selects ifs own chairman who is known 
as "president of the council or board" (if aldermen). 

The laws which the council enacts are ones not speci- 
fied in the charter. Ordinances which relate to sanita- 
tion, building inspection, street traffic, are all handled 
by the council. In many cities the council has the power 
to confirm all appointments of the mayor, to appropriate 
money and to grant franchises to public utilities. The 
council divides itself into several committees, which per- 
form a great deal of the detailed work that could not 
be handled very profitably by the larger bod} 7 . As 
may be seen in the preceding statements, the plan of this 
form of government is such that the mayor has most of 
the authority and the council plays a rather secondary 
part in the program of governing the city. 

The second form of city government which has been 
tried most successfully by over 300 cities (mostly of the 
West) is that of the commission. This group or board 
usually numbers five members, but it varies. Three is 
a very popular number for the smaller communities. 
The commission represents the whole city and partisan- 
ship invariably disappears when the financial questions 
involving expenditures and appropriations arise. The 
commission receives a very good salary in most of the 
cities where it puts all its time on city work. The term 
of office varies in different cities and ranges from two 
to six years. 

Under this plan a small body conducts the affairs of 
the city and comprises the executive, legislative and 
judicial branches of government. This works just the 
opposite from that of the mayor-council plan, where the 



46 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

powers of government are divided. The head of the 
commission is in some places called mayor and in others 
president, and is the one who> receives the greatest num- 
ber of votes at the general election. He has no special 
power but to preside at all meetings of the commission 
and vote equally with the other members. 

The commission makes all the local laws and then 
sees that they are carried out; in fact, all of the func- 
tions of the first form of city government are to be found 
under the powers of the commission. It appoints offi- 
cials such as are generally elected in other communities, 
using the mayor-council plan, and it can enact legisla- 
tion creating new offices. The people are protected from 
poor administration on the part of the individual mem- 
bers of the commission by the checking system of the re- 
call, referendum, and initiative, although the latter has 
not been used very successfully to any great extent. 
The members of the commission are placed on their 
honor and have a good chance to prove their individual 
worth. 

The third form of city government is that known as 
the city manager, and although only a small per cent 
of the cities of the country are giving this a trial it has 
proved very successful. It is well to give an illustration 
of the machinery of this form of government by using 
that of Dayton, Ohio, which was one of the first com- 
munities to introduce it. 

According to the charter the voters elect a commission 
of five from the city at large. Partisanship is exceed- 
ingly noticeable because of its absence, and any member 
may be recalled on a petition signed by twenty-five per 
cent of the registered voters if he proves unsatisfactory 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 47 

or out of harmony with the real ideals for which the 
city stands. 

The commission with only legislative power appoints 
the manager. The latter is the administrative head of 
the city and like the commission may be recalled. He 
accepts the responsibility of the whole administration, 
and therefore to make the city an efficient public cor- 
poration he must be exceedingly careful in his appoint- 
ments of the heads of departments and their assistants 
to choose only the best. He carries out the laws that 
are enacted by the commission ; he recommends orders 
and laws for legislation, he makes reports to the com- 
mission and prepares the budget. In Dayton there is a 
mayor who is a member of the commission, but his powers 
are secondary to those of the manager. 

From the above example of the city of Dayton one 
may easily discern the obvious fact that the fundamental 
scheme of the city manager form of government is to 
place the city on a strictly business basis and to have it 
run as such. 

In some communities the manager elected is a citizen 
of that special community, while other cities go outside 
and get a man who has had business experience and who 
will undertake to run the affairs of the same as the 
general manager of any large business corporation. 

The judicial branch of city government includes the 
inferior courts and these are made up of justices of the 
peace, police and municipal courts. The former have 
original jurisdiction over minor civil cases and also try 
petty offenses, such as breaches of the peace. The police 
courts also handle petty criminal offenses and investigate 
all cases which have a tendency to be of a serious nature. 



48 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

The municipal courts exercise a minor civil jurisdiction. 
In some states the judges of these inferior courts are 
elected by the voters while in others they are appointed 
by the governor and council and for an indefinite term. 
The justices of the peace are appointed by the governor, 
but for a much shorter time and all may be removed 
through the process of impeachment. 

A CITY ELECTION 

Persons Properties 

Mayor (two or more candidates) Nomination Papers 

Treasurer (two or more candidates) Ballots 

Aldermen (seven or nine)i Ballot Box 

Aldermen at Large (six candidates) Gavel 

School Committee (three candidates) Polling List 

City Clerk Tables (three) 

2 Chairman of Health Board , Chairs (fifteen) 

Chairman of Charity Board Mayor's Letter to Coun- 
Chairman of Highways cil recommending city 

Solicitor officials not on ballot 

Auditor 

Assessors (two) 
Election Officers (two) 

Ph f f P T 1 Civil Service appointments not necessary in 

™_- js £ -n- r> i- demonstration unless the Leader wishes to 

Chief of Fire De- f r , , 

, , elaborate, 
partment J 

i When a city has only one legislative body this body is called 
either a council or board of aldermen. We have chosen the latter 
for this demonstration. 

2 Mayor's recommendations approved by the council. 

INSTRUCTIONS 

As it would be impractical in the scope of this short 
course to attempt the demonstration of each of the sev- 
eral forms of city government, we have chosen the one 
in most common use — the Mayor and Council form, which 
also lends itself most readily to demonstration. 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 49 

In this chapter we wish to elect an entire city govern- 
ment. In order to do so we must first demonstrate a city 
election, and then later the initial meeting of the board 
of aldermen, because all city officials not on the ballot 
are appointed by the mayor, and these appointments 
must be acted upon by the board before they are as- 
sured, excepting of course the civil service appoint- 
ments. 

In preparation for the class meeting, nomination 
papers, like the one given at the close of this chapter, 
should be drawn up and mineographed. There should 
be one for each name that appears on the ballot, and 
the number of ballots prepared should equal the number 
in the class. Using the names of class members for 
candidates, make the ballots like the model on page 51. 

It is always possible to borrow a gavel and sometimes 
a ballot box, but the latter may be contrived at home. 
The polling list is but a roll of the class with their 
addresses. 

A room with closets or dressing rooms would be an 
asset for this demonstration, in which the Australian 
Ballot system is used. When such a room is not avail- 
able, folding screens, placed beyond the election officials' 
tables, will make excellent substitutes and afford the 
secret voting booths. The rail, beyond which the voter 
passes after he has been checked by the inspector or 
election officer, may have to be imaginary. 

The tables and chairs do double duty. They are first 
used to equip the mock polling place (see page 59) and 
are later quietly rearranged to simulate an aldermanic 
chamber (see Chapter IV). Diagrams of both arrange- 
ments will be given on the following pages. If the room 



50 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

contains a small platform it would be better to have it 
removed for the time being, because although it will serve 
very well in the aldermanic chamber it will not fit in the 
polling place. A large platform or stage with adequate 
floor space would be admirable. One table will be needed 
by the city clerk while the nomination papers are being 
filed, and this should be placed just outside the imagi- 
nary rail that separates the polling place from the au- 
dience. 

The clerk should be instructed as to his duties, and 
also the president of the board of aldermen, who should 
be a parliamentarian. The best instruction possible 
would be a visit to a city aldermanic session, where on- 
lookers are always welcome. Lacking this, a careful 
reading of the demonstration which follows will suffice. 

During the period reserved for the signing or nomina- 
tion papers there will be more or less stirring about 
the room and chatting. Then when the mayor's recom- 
mendations are being acted upon by the aldermen, the 
leader may allow a bit of impromptu "mud slinging," 
which, by the way, is the easiest form of public speaking. 

It has been found best in giving this demonstration 
to elect only aldermen at large, and to omit the election 
of the regular ward aldermen, who should, of course, 
take out nomination papers in the usual way, and whose 
names should be on the ballot of each ward. To simplify 
matters, the leader should appoint one from each mock 
ward, after giving the explanation cited above. 

The leader should also explain that, whereas city vot- 
ing is really done at ward polling places, the one big 
election is used here to economize time — the methods 
being identical. At a real polling place are often found 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 



51 



as many as seven election officials. These are warden, 
assistant warden, clerk, two inspectors and two watchers, 
one from each political party. A policeman is not an 
election official. 



OFFICIAL BALLOT 
City of Melrose Dec. 9th. 1919 


To vote for a person make a cross X in the square at right of name. 


Mayor — Vote for one 

Herbert Hoover LJ 
George Harvey Lj 
Henry Cabot Lodge LJ 


Treasurer — Vote for one 

William Sunday CD 
Phineas T. Barnum L_l 


Aldermen at Large — Vote for 
three 

Bernard Shaw LJ 
H. G. Wells □ 
Arnold Bennett □ 
Gilbert Cbesterton □ 
John Galsworthy 1 1 


School Committee — Vote for Two 
Nicholas M. Butler □ 
Arthur T. Hadley Q 
Chas. W. Eliot Q 




License Question 

To vote on the following make 
a cross X in the square at 
right of yes or no. 


YES 
Shall licenses be i — i 

granted for the sale 


of intoxicating liq- 

uors in this city? _ 



MODEL BALLOT 
TECHNIQUE OF VOTING 

In order to become proficient in the gentle art of vot- 
ing the directions given below should be followed in the 
order given in the tabulated list ; 



52 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

Registration 

Poll Tax 

Observation of notification to voters, to be found posted 
in public places and newspapers 

Measures of information concerning candidates and 
issues 

Ten minute visit to the polls 

Giving of name and address 

Marking of ballot 

Folding of ballot 

Dropping into ballot box 

As voting laws vary greatly in different states, we 
must beg our readers to ascribe all seeming inaccuracies, 
which, they may note, to the fact that we have attempted 
to set down the rules only as we have found them in 
the state of Massachusetts. 

First, in the matter of registration, a telephone call 
on the city or town clerk will give one immediately the 
data of time and place for this initial act. Ordinarily 
the registration closes twenty days before an election, 
having been open for months previously, but there are 
many and various registration periods appointed for spe- 
cial reasons and frequently evening sittings of the regis- 
tration board are held. When you present yourself at 
the office of registration — usually the clerk's office in 
smaller communities — you must be identified, must sign 
your name, must read a section of the Constitution of 
the United States, and if foreign born, must give court 
and date of naturalization. You will be asked your 
present residence, your residence on the past April first, 
also length of residence in the present city or town, 
your occupation and place of occupation, place of birth 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 53 

aud age; these latter questions must be answered under 
oath. In many large cities, one must also give, ap- 
proximately, their height, weight and complexion. 

If you are able to prove your literacy and the fact 
that you are an American citizen ; if you can show that 
you have resided six months or a year — the law varies 
in this — in the district where you are making application 
for registration ; if you are twenty-one years of age and 
neither pauper, idiot, insane or criminal, or a bigamist 
and have never been convicted of fraudulent voting, your 
name will be placed upon the polling list, and one day 
you will be gratified to see it posted with others in a 
public place where all the world may see that you are 
enfranchised. 

In due time you will receive a poll tax bill for two 
dollars, which you will pay promptly if you are a desir- 
able citizen. This tax is in no sense a passport to the 
polls, as its non-payment does not debar you from vot- 
ing. A property restriction on the franchise still exists 
in some southern states, as it relates to the negro, but 
unless you are absolutely dependent on the city or town 
for support, your right to vote will not be questioned 
on this score. 

Now, having taken these preliminary steps you must 
be alert to ascertain the date of the next election and 
the candidates and measures involved. It is customary 
for the candidates or their friends to send notifications 
to the voters, in the nature of recommendations, just 
previous to election time but this cannot be depended 
upon. The law only requires that notices, modelled 
on the lines of a warrant, containing lists of officers 
to be voted for, and time and place of election be dis- 



54 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

played in public places and published in newspapers a 
certain number of days previously. In the newspapers 
will be found also much in the nature of propaganda, 
not only concerning the various candidates for office, 
but also concerning measures that are to be determined 
upon at the polls. 

The day having arrived you will present yourself at 
your prescribed polling place. It may seem to you that 
there are very many and over-important looking offi- 
cials furnished to oversee so small a task as the casting 
of a ballot, but there are few besides those the state 
laws require. The policeman is detailed by the city, and 
the watchers, one from each political party, are placed 
there to insure fairness to each side. The warden, clerk 
and four inspectors are the usual election officials. 

As you pass beyond the rail into this "holy of voters " 
where stands the ark of the ballot, you will be asked to 
give your name and address, and while you wait, the 
official, seated at a table with the copy of the polling 
list spread out before him, will run down the list until 
he finds you duly enrolled. Now you will be handed 
an unmarked ballot and be waved to a row of compart- 
ments, each shut off from the other. Here you may put 
a cross (x) at the right of the names of the candidates 
you favor, and a cross in the space indicated by either 
yes or no at the right of the measure to be voted upon. 
You are privileged to write in the name of your own 
particular choice of candidate, for a certain office, if 
it chances not to be upon the official ballot. This is 
called scratching a ballot. To vote a bullet, is to mark 
but one name where several may be marked, thereby 
giving your favorite an advantage. 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 55 

If you are unfortunate enough to make a mistake in 
your marking, you may ask for and be given a fresh 
ballot, but only two extra ones are allowed — a third 
request will be refused. Next you are expected to re- 
fold the ballot as you received it; by so doing your 
markings are secreted from the other occupants of the 
polling place. Once more your name and address must 
be given to another official to be checked off on another 
voting list and it is at this place that your legal right 
to vote may be challenged. 1 

There remains now but the dropping of the ballot into 
the box. As you do this some one turns a lever, a bell 
clicks and the deed is done. 

DEMONSTRATION 

When the story of city government has been given, 
the leader reseats the class in vertical rows, naming each 
row a ward, and numbering them from one to seven. 
Each row should include one of the seven chosen ward 
aldermen. 

Next the leader announces that this is no longer a 
class, but a city community, subdivided into wards, 
which is about to elect its government. All those desir- 
ing to run for office are requested to obtain nomination 
papers from the city clerk, who should be seated in front 
at a table. As a city clerk is usually a permanent ap- 
pointment, this same clerk will later be named for an- 
other year's term. 

If modesty dictates, the candidate for office may ask 

i Challenging a vote is for »the purpose of safeguarding against 
a fraudulent use of the ballot. When this is done the person 
challenged may take oath as to his legality and the matter is 
left to be investigated at a future time. 



56 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

a friend to solicit the signatures required on his nomina- 
tion paper, but he must first write on the reverse side 
of the paper his acceptance followed by his signature, 
after this fashion — ' ' I hereby accept the within nomina- 
tion. John Jones. " These signatures may be obtained 
from any one in the room, provided he has not already 
signed the paper of another candidate for the same 
office. When each paper has seven * names it should be 
taken to the city clerk for verification. This consists 
in running through the lists, not only to check it up 
with the polling list, but also to discover errors in signa- 
ture or address. The correct signature is Christian 
name, with middle initial and surname. If there are 
errors, the corrections must be made before the paper 
can be filed. 

The filing is done by one of the signers who holds 
up his right hand before the city clerk and swears to 
his own signature, and then signs the affidavit attached 
to the nomination. The city clerk, who is also a Justice 
of the Peace, having first satisfied himself as to the 
identity of the signer, next affixes his own signature and 
by so doing affirms the legality of the paper. 

Now while in imagination the city clerk is placing the 
names on the ballots, the leader should give instructions 
for using the Australian Ballot. 

One by one, the citizens of this mock community 
present themselves at the improvised polling place, and 
cast their votes according to the directions in the pre- 
ceding pages. 

The returns from the election are announced by the 

i The genuine legal independent nomination paper should have 
fifty verified signatures. 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 57 

clerk as at a town- meeting. The number of ballots cast 
for each office is given first; then the number polled by 
each candidate and finally the successful candidate is 
declared duly elected. 

Previous to these declarations, while the ballots are 
being counted, the leader may take the opportunity to 
diagram verbally the real course of events in a real city, 
following a municipal election. 1 

Now follows the oath of office, administered to the 
mayor, treasurer, seven ward aldermen and three alder- 
men at large. 

This is executed by the city clerk. The officials just 
elected, holding up the right hand, repeat the words 
of the city oath, sentence by sentence, after him. This 
may be a whole or a part of the model oath given below. 

Oath of the 
CITY OF MELROSE 

I do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and 
allegiance to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and will 
support the Constitution thereof. So help me God. 

I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully and impartially 
discharge and perform all the duties incumbent on me as 
of the City of Melrose accord- 
ing to the best of my abilities and understanding, agree- 
ably to the rules and regulations of the Constitution and 
laws of the Commonwealth. So help me God. 

I do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution 
of the United States. So help me God. 

i As this program varies in different cities it is well to call 
on the clerk of one's own city for this information. 



58 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 



MODEL NOMINATION PAPERS 

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS 

Middlesex City of Melrose 

Nomination Papers 

The undersigned qualified voters of the 

in accordance with the provisions of Chap. 825 Acts of 
1913 make the following nomination of candidates to be 
voted for in the election to be held in the City of Melrose 
on Dec. 9, 1919. 



Name of Candi- 
date 
Name in full 



Office for which 
nominated 



Party or Political 
principle repre- 
sented 



Residence, Street 
and Number 



SIGNATURES AND RESIDENCES OF QUALIFIED 
VOTERS 

We certify that we have subscribed to no other nomina- 
tions of candidates for this office. 



Signatures to be 
made in person 



Residence 
April 1, 1919 



Present 
Residence 



Ward 



Signers must write their first and last names in full, 
with the initials of other names. 



STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 59 

AFFIDAVIT TO NOMINATION PAPERS 
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS 

Middlesex ss. : 1919 

Then personally appeared 

who I am satisfied is one of the signers of the above nomina- 
tion paper and made oath that the statements therein con- 
tained are true to the best of his knowledge and belief and 

that his postoffice address is 

Before me 

Justice of the Peace 

During or after the swearing in of the elected officials, 
as described in Chapter III, let the leader call on some 
of the members to assist him in the rearrangement of 
the stage. This being done, the aldermen should take 
their appointed places, according to the diagram below, 
as fast as they are sworn in. 





Voting 
Booths) 


Ballot 
Box 

□ 


Voting 
1 Booths 
















Election 
Official 




Election 
Official 


Policem 

r 


an 

1 




_} 


1 


. 



DIAGRAM OF POLLING PLACE 

The city clerk then assumes the chair and discharges 
the duties until such time as the president of the board 
is elected. There should be two or more nominations 
for president and these are made from the floor. The 
balloting is done in the simplest way — each alderman 
writing his choice on a slip of paper, and depositing it 
in a hat or box passed for the purpose. The clerk de- 
clares the successful candidate. 



60 STORY OF CITY GOVERNMENT 

The nomination of the city clerk is next in order. 
Some one courteously suggests the present incumbent 
of the office, and after it has been seconded the balloting 
is done by roll call. The mayor swears him in. 

The final business before adjournment is the reading 
by the president of the mayor's letter with its recom- 
mendations. (See below.) 

Separately the president takes up the recommenda- 
tions and calls for discussion. No name should pass un- 
challenged by the board. Serious or ridiculous objec- 
tions may be made, but in each case it would be best to 
vote in the end to approve the mayor's suggestions, be- 
cause these are the names that have been selected by 
the leader as best fitted to fill the various offices. After 
as much time given to each discussion as the hour will 
allow, the votes taken should be "yea" and "nay. : 

The motion to adjourn comes from the floor. 

MAYOR'S OFFICE 
City of Melrose 
To the Honorable Board of Aldermen: 

Gentlemen : 

I nominate subject to your approval 

for Chairman of Board of Health 

for Chairman of Board of Charity 

for Chairman of Board of Highways 

Solicitor 

Auditor 



M 



{: 



Election Officers -I 

(Signed) 

Mayor. 

Fill in with names of class. 



CHAPTER IV 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 



Persons 


Properties 


Mayor 


Tables (three) 


President of the Board 


Chairs (sixteen) 


Aldermen (twelve) 


Gavel 


City Clerk 


Calendars (tabulated list of bills that 


Clerk of Committees 


have been in committee) 


Reporter 


Petition Bills 




Recommendation Bills (Mayor) 




Bills offered bv Aldermen 



Tin Box for holding Bills 



INSTRUCTIONS 



As the following demonstration is a continuation of 
the preceding one, the mayor, clerk, aldermen, and 
president of the board of alderman should be the same 



Press 



Clerk 



President 



Aldermen 



"^C7" 



DIAGRAM OF ALDERMANIC CHAMBER 



as those elected at the last meeting of the unit. In 
addition, it will be necessary to have a clerk of com- 
mittees to distribute the calendars and act as a mes- 
senger. The reporter may be but a figurehead; or he 

61 



62 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 

may be the chairman of publicity, if these demonstrations 
are given by an organization. 

To prepare a dozen or more mock bills is no small 
task. Where it is possible, obtain the blanks from your 
local city clerk and frame your bills from local condi- 
tions. Where this is not feasible the model bills at the 
end of the chapter may be used, with or without varia- 
tions. These will be found to be of the common or gar- 
den variety of aldermanic business. One copy of each 
is sufficient as only the president need use it; but head- 
ings of each should appear carefully numbered on the 
calendar. 1 A number of these (calendars) should be 
mimeographed, not only for the use of each alderman, 
but for the convenience of the remaining members of the 
unit who act as spectators. A model calendar will be 
found on pages 74 and 75. 

The president standing at his desk should read the 
bills rapidly and bang the gavel lustily whenever the 
opportunity offers. 

The balloting is clone by yea and nay votes, except 
in cases of appropriations, when it is always customary 
to use the roll call. 

Whenever possible, the president or speakers on the 
floor should refer to the individual members as the 
alderman from Ward One or Two as the case may be. 

Either a rehearsal or careful instructions should be 
given the aldermen chosen to speak, and certain ones, 
as in the Town Meeting demonstration must be selected 
to make motions, ask questions and "kick" at appro- 
priations. 

i It is customary in many cities to send a calendar to each 
member of the board, twenty-four hours before the meeting. 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 63 

As this is the fourth demonstration the class will now 
have learned that freedom of speech and original sug- 
gestions or objections, no matter how aggressive, add 
very much to the success of the sessions. In case the 
participants have not time to procure data, suggestions 
for discussion will be found on page 72. Too great 
emphasis can not be laid upon the desirability of fre- 
quent visits to aldermanic meetings — not only to per- 
fect the details of these demonstrations but also to supple- 
ment the citizenship course. 

DEMONSTRATION 

When the leader announces that an adjourned meet- 
ing of the aldermen will now be held, the participants 
take their places in front as at the previous meeting. 
The clerk of committee proceeds at once to distribute 
the calendars, and then delivers the box or file of bills 
to the president. 

The president, striking the desk with the gavel, an- 
nounces that the meeting will be in order. Then follows 
the roll call by the clerk — the aldermen answering 
"here" or "present" — after which the president an- 
nounces that there is a quorum present. 

Some one now moves that the reading of the journal 
or records of the last meeting be omitted. 

The president says "The alderman from Ward Five 
moves that the reading of the records be omitted. Is 
there any objection ? The chair hearing none the meet- 
ing will proceed." He then reads communications from 
the mayor in the form of bills followed by other bills 
from various sources. (See following page.) This is 
called the first reading and each bill is referred by the 



64 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 

president to the standing committee x under whose prov- 
ince it falls. There is no further action taken on these 
bills at this time, although it is perfectly in order to 
ask for immediate action or consideration. To facilitate 
the demonstration it would be better to bring in all 
discussions later when the bills listed on the calendar are 
read. 

MODEL BILLS FOR FIRST READING 

Mayor's Office 
Bill 718— To the Honorable Board of Aldermen 
City of Melrose, Mass. 
I beg to transmit to your board for careful consideration 
a bill prohibiting the granting of licenses for any dancing 
party in this city which will last later t han 12 p. m. 
Yours respectfully, 

Ellery Calvin Hodge 

Mayor. 
Referred to the Committee on Protection and Licenses. 

Mayor's Office 
Bill 719— To the Honorable Board of Aldermen 

City of Melrose, Mass. 
Gentlemen : 

Whereas it has been customary in the past to allow 
skating on Crystal Lake during the winter months, and 
whereas the ice cutting privilege lately granted the Munic- 
ipal Ice Company will prohibit this sport in the future, 
I beg to suggest that Your Honorable Board of Aldermen 
appropriate the sum of Five Hundred (500) Dollars for 
the construction of a skating and hockey rink at Meredith's 
Meadows, for the use of the youth of the city. 

Ellery Calvin Hodge 

Mayor. 
Referred to the Committee on Appropriations. 

,i These committees, such as finance, highways, public service, 
etc. are appointed by the president at the initial meeting of the 
board; but this was omitted from the demonstration as unessen- 
tial in a mock session. 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 65 

Bill 720— Offered by Alderman Wells 

Be it Ordered : 

That public convenience requires that 
an incandescent light be installed on the pole on the east 
line of the Estate of John Black Smith on Whiteside 
Street West. The cost of said light to be taken from 
appropriation for said lighting. 

Referred to the Committee on Highways. 

Bill 721 — To the Honorable Board of Aldermen 
Gentlemen : 

The undersigned Respectfully Pray that Your Honor- 
able Board prohibit the release of any motion picture films 
in this city until said film shall be censored by a board 
composed of one mother, one school teacher, one clergyman, 
one woman's club member and one alderman (five in all). 

Mary Pickford Mary M. Minter 

Chas. Chaplin • Roscoe Arbuckle 

W. W. Reid Dorothy Gish 

Wm. Hart Thomas Mix 

E. A. Ferguson Theda Bara 

Referred to Committee on Education, Health and Charity. 

The second and third readings come after the com- 
mittees have passed upon them and returned them to the 
board. They are then marked on the back ''recom- 
mended — ought to pass" or cl inexpedient to legislate" 
or "placed on file," etc. It is optional with the presi- 
dent whether he announces the number of the reading 
or not, but he should state the committee or committees 
through whose hands the bill has passed and their ver- 
dict concerning it. 

After reading the bills on pages 64 and 65 the presi- 
dent may pause for breath, while the leader takes the 
opportunity to explain to the audience the facts noted 



66 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 

above and also any other information which is not 
demonstrable. 

Once more the president uses the gavel and says, "We 
will now proceed with the order of the day (the calen- 
dar)." He reads Bill 711 (see page 69) adding that 
it is accompanied by a recommendation from the Com- 
mittee on Education, Health and Charity. Next he says, 
"Is there objection to immediate consideration at this 
time The Chair hearing none, the question comes on 
the confirmation of the nomination." 

"All those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed 'no.' 

"The ayes have it, — it is a vote." (Gavel.) 

He reads Bill 712 (see page 69) and adds the date of 
its recommendation. This time the formula of state- 
ment is "Is there objection to immediate action at this 
time? The Chair hearing none, the question comes on 
the passage of the order." 

The vote procedure is identical with that of bill 711. 

He reads Bill 713 (see page 70). Pinned to this 
bill should be a second paper, on which is written a 
report from the Committee on Highways. It should 
read after this fashion : 

"This petition appeared before the Board in June of 
1914. It was reported from your Committee on High- 
ways in October of the same year as inexpedient to legis- 
late. It was again referred to committee at that time. 
On petition of one of the signers it has been resubmitted 
to committee and is now recommended "ought to pass." 

"Is there any objection to immediate consideration? 
The Chair hears none. The question comes on accepting 
the report of committee." Vote as before. 

After these three bills have been disposed of, an alder- 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 67 

man rises, and asks for consent to speak. The following 
is the correct procedure in such cases. 

The president says, "The alderman from Ward Four 
asks for unanimous consent to speak. Is there objec- 
tion? The chair hears none. The gentleman has per- 
mission. ' ' 

The alderman from Ward Four complains that a bill 
for the suppression of roosters in which he is much 
interested was referred to the committee on Protection 
and Licenses many weeks ago and that nothing has been 
heard from it since. The. Chair calls on the chairman 
of the committee for explanations. The alderman for 
this part now rises and apologizes lamely. "Because 
of the press of business," etc, etc. 

The alderman from Ward Four now asks for imme- 
diate consideration on this bill. 

Again the president says: "Is there objection to im- 
mediate consideration at this time? The chair hears 
none. The question comes on the passage of the order. ' ' 1 

Now follows discussion (see pp. 73, 74) . After the two 
or three have spoken that the leader has arranged for, 
the chair asks, "Is there further discussion?" If there 
is none the question comes to vote. All those in favor 
say aye — those opposed no. The noes have it. It is a 
vote." 

(The President should not forget to use the gavel at 
the completion of this and every other piece of business.) 

On Bill 704 (see page 70) which is a recommendation 
from the mayor, immediate action is asked for again as 
above. First the chairman of highways is called upon to 

i It will be noticed that the Chair uses a slightly different 
form in putting before the aldermen differently sponsored bills. 



68 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 

make a statement. What he says being but a repetition 
<of the statements in the bill, dissatisfaction is expressed 
iby several aldermen. As the discussion proceeds some 
fone suggests that the mayor be called in to elucidate. 
'The president appoints an alderman to wait on His Honor 
;and request his presence in the Alderman ic Chamber. 
He appears with due state on the arm of his escort and 
(explains the further appropriation of $5000 on a street 
improvement proposition that had previously passed the 
iboard. This bill meets great opposition. After the 
mayor has withdrawn, the highway committee come in 
for criticism, also the contractor, and in the end it fails 
to pass. (Where there is an appropriation of money it 
will be hardly possible to exaggerate the acrimonious 
'Comment of the board. In this case there should be a 
roll call vote.) 

Bill 716 (see page 71), another petition bill, is amus- 
ingly argued (see suggestions page 72) and finally rele- 
gated to a public hearing before final action shall be 
taken. This is accomplished by a motion from the floor 
which is seconded and then voted upon. 

Bill 708 (see page 71) is a request from Alderman 
Bennett for a traffic officer on a street-crossing in his 
ward and, after the sponsor of the bill has spoken on 
it, it is favorably acted upon. 

Bill 700 (see page 70), another recommendation from 
the mayor, is for an increase in the salaries of the public 
school teachers. There should be several speakers for 
and against this bill, but no suggestions will be neces- 
sary for its discussion as this is such a universal topic 
of the day. Various conditions existing in different 
cities, this bill should be handled or not at the discretion 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 69 

of the leader ; but where it is used, it is particularly pro- 
ductive of interest. If used, it would be well to accom- 
pany it with a report from the Committee on Education 
before which it must first have appeared. 

Bills prohibiting Sunday sports, or the excessive speed 
of automobiles, bills permitting the erection of gasoline 
tanks or electric poles, bills licensing junk dealers or 
hackney carriages may be substituted. 

The move to adjourn comes from the floor. 



MODEL BILLS LISTED ON CALENDAR 

711 

Mayor's Office 

City of Melrose 

October 6, 1919 
To Your Honorable Board of Aldermen; 
Gentlemen : 

It becomes necessary that the vacancy on the Charity 
Board, occasioned by the regrettable demise of Moses Rich, 
shall be filled immediately. I nominate, subject to the 
approval of your Board, Aaron Poor for this position. 
Respectfully yours, 

Eli*ery Calvin Hodge, 
Mayor 
Recommended by Committee on Education, Health and 
Charity. 

712 

City of Melrose 
In Board of Aldermen 

Nov. 15, 1919 
Offered by Alderman Shaw: 

Be it ordered: that commencing with the first of May 
a daily garbage collection be made in Wards Three, Four 



70 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 






and Five, in consequence of the well-known fact that, 
during the hot months of last summer, the infrequent 
collections of garbage in the more thickly settled wards of 
the city, became an insufferable nuisance. 

Recommended by the Committee on Education, Health 
and Charity. 

700 

Mayor's Office 

City of Melrose 

Dec. 15, 1919 
To the Honorable Board of Aldermen; 
Gentlemen : 

Whereas the public schools of Melrose have suffered 
severely during the last few years from the resignation 
of many of our best teachers, because of the low rate of 
salaries paid by our city, I beg to transmit to your Hon- 
orable Board, for careful consideration, this petition for 
an increase of 33 1/3% to alj teachers employed in Mel- 
rose. 

Yours respectfully, 

Ellery Calvin Hodge, 

Mayor 
Education, Health and Charity. 

713 

City of Melrose 
In the Board of Aldermen 

June 3, 1914 
To the Honorable Board of Aldermen; 
Gentlemen : 

We, the undersigned, respectfully pray that Oriole 
Park, lying between Oriole Avenue and the north boundary 
of the estate of Robert White, and formally designated 
a private way, be accepted by the city. 

Asa B. Bird and others. 
Highways. 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 71 

704 

City of Melrose 

Mayor's Office Dec. 18, 1919 

To the Honorable Board of Aldermen; 

Gentlemen : 

I am advised, by the supervisor of public works, that 
it will cost an additional five thousand dollars ($5000) to 
complete the cement road under construction on Park 
Avenue, and I recommend that your Honorable Board make 
this additional appropriation at once. 

Respectfully yours, 

Ellery Calvin Hodge, 

Mayor 



716 

City of Melrose 

Aug. 9, 1919 
To the Honorable Board of Aldermen; 
Gentlemen : 

The undersigned respectfully pray that a large hole 
on the estate of John Styles may be filled with ashes 
from the city's collection. Said hole being dangerously 
situated at the street side of the above mentioned estate 
is likely to become a menace to unwary pedestrians after 
nightfall. 

William White 
Fred W. Black 
Ciias. P. Green 
Phineas 0. Brown 
Wardsworth Rose 
Martin Sky Ballou 
and others. 



Education, Health & Charity. 



72 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 

City of Melrose 
708 

In the Board of Aldermen 

Sept. 1, 1919 
Offered by Alderman Masefield 
Be it Ordered : 

that, whereas the crossing- at the junction 
of First and Last Streets has become a menace to the pub- 
lic safety because of reckless and criminal driving of auto- 
mobiles, a traffic officer be stationed at said corner during 
the busy hours of the day. 
Protection and Licenses. 
705 

City of Melrose 

Jan. 13, 1919 
To the Honorable Board of Aldermen; 
Gentlemen : 

We the undersigned clergymen of this city, viewing with 
regret the laxity with which the Sabbath Day is observed 
in our city, beg to protest against Sunday sports of all 
kinds, and also against the open disrespect of God's day, 
which grows more and more apparent. 
Asa Allen Luke Lowell 

Joel Joy Paul Peters 

Daniel Dean Barnabas Bean 

Mark Merriam Stephen Steel 

Placed on File. 

SUGGESTIONS FOR THE DISCUSSION OF 
BILL 716 

The petition of John Styles to have a hole on his 
estate filled with ashes from the city's collection seems 
a very innocent and a very ordinary piece of business 
to come before a board of aldermen, until one rather 
crochety alderman rises and asks to give a bit of inside 
information on the matter. His facts are these: John 
Styles is known to be well-to-do and very thrifty. "When 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 73 

lie bought an ungraded piece of land in a good residential, 
district of the city he was warned by experts that the 
grading would be an extremely expensive business; but 
he went on unheeding well-meant advice. Having built 
a rather pretentious house on this lot, he proceeds to take 
all the loam lying next the street to grade that portion 
of the lot next the house ; thereby leaving a drop of ten 
or twelve feet next to the sidewalk, unprotected by wall 
or fence. 

Having done this, he loses no time in presenting the 
above mentioned petition to the city. But while the 
bill goes through the usual processes of legislation, the 
expected happens. More than one unwary pedestrian 
has measured his length in this ditch, which Styles has 
thoughtfully kept muddy. No great damage has been 
incurred except in tailor's bills for cleansing and press- 
ing, but one neighbor went in with two dozen eggs at one 
dollar a dozen, and another spilled therein, a large bag 
of beans. It is suggested that Styles be under the ex- 
pense of filling the ditch himself, as he is known to be 
abundantly able to do so. 

A third alderman regrets the mishap occasioned by 
the delay of the bill in passing the board of Aldermen : 
but feels that the city should do the same service in 
Styles 's case as it has been accustomed to do in other 
cases. 

It is referred by vote to a public hearing. 

Suggestion on Bill 708 

The crossing at the junction of First and Last Streets'* 
has grown to be a grave menace to the public safety. Al- 
though not in the business section of the city, it has; 



74 BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 

become since the advent of the automobile, a much fre- 
quented corner. The houses abutting upon the street on 
all four corners obstructing the view, adds much to the 
danger to automobilists. There is a school house near, 
etc., etc. 

SUGGESTIONS ON ROOSTER BILL 

Some one in the congested part of the city is raising 
roosters for exhibition purposes and thus the night is 
made hideous by their crowing. The alderman from 
that ward has been persuaded to present a bill for their 
suppression. It develops that one member of the board 
raises chickens for diversion and he also has a brood of 
bantam roosters. He proves very inflammable on the 
subject and stoutly maintains that he has as much right 
to raise bantams for his pleasure as his colleagues to 
drink and smoke. Some one points out that cats like- 
wise make the night hideous, but no one objects to their 
being maintained within the city limits. The president 
makes the distinction that whereas, cats may be shot or 
poisoned with impunity, hens, being property, are pro- 
tected by the law. 

The suggestion is made that to put the roosters down 
cellar at night, or to cover the coop to insure perfect 
darkness, will silence them. In the end the vote goes in 
favor of Mr. Rooster, who may still legally crow within 
this city. 

CITY OF MELROSE 
Calendar of the Board of Aldermen 
Regular Meeting December 23, 1919 

No. 711 Nomination of Aaron Poor to Charity Board 
Recommended by Mayor — Rec. 



BOARD OF ALDERMEN SESSION 75 

No. 712 Daily Garbage Collection in Wards 3, 4 & 5 

Recommended 
No. 713 Petition that Oriole Place be accepted by City 

Recommended 
No. 704 Park Ave. construction $5000 additional 

Inexpedient to Legislate 
No. 716 Hole filled on estate of John Styles 

Recommended 
No. 708 Traffic officer at the junction of First & Last 

Streets 

Recommended 
No. 700 Increase in teachers' salaries 

Recommended by Mayor 

Inexpedient to Legislate 
No. 705 * Protest of ministers against Sunday sports. 
Placed on file 
i Protests and reports are placed on file by a vote. 



CHAPTER V 
STATE GOVERNMENT 

Every state in the United States derives its powers 
from its constitution, and these powers are second only 
to those of the National Constitution. The state con- 
stitutions were each framed by the people themselves, 
acting- through chosen delegates who assembled in con- 
vention; and in a majority of states the constitution as 
prepared by this convention was ratified by the people. 
One of the main parts of each constitution is the Bill 
of Rights, which emphatically states the rights of the 
people, and to what extent laws may be made without 
infringing upon these rights. 

Each state government is divided into three distinct 
branches — the legislative, executive and judicial. Be- 
cause of the greater importance of the law making body 
in state government it is best that the legislature come 
first in the order of discussion. In all states it is made 
up of two houses, the upper called the Senate, and the 
lower known as the House of Representatives, and when 
each is in session they are known in some states as the 
General Court, while in others the General Assembly. 
It is customary for the legislature to convene at a time 
fixed by statute or by the state constitution, but special 
sessions may be called by the governor if necessity de- 
mands it. 

76 



STATE GOVERNMENT 77 

Members of the legislature are chosen by popular vote 
for a term which varies in the different states, and the 
qualifications for office are determined by law. Mem- 
bers must reside in the district from which they are 
elected. In some states the senators and representatives 
receive either an annual salary or so much compensation 
per day, according to the length of the session. The 
House of Representatives is presided over by a Speaker, 
elected from among its members; while the lieutenant- 
governor is nearly always the presiding officer of the 
Senate (in Massachusetts the Senate elects its own presi- 
dent), and each house determines its own rules of pro- 
cedure. The power of making laws is limited only by 
the Federal Constitution and the state constitution ; each 
act that originates in one house must also be passed by 
the other and then accepted by the governor before it 
becomes a law. Then again in a number of states the 
people have a direct voice in the enactment of laws by 
means of the referendum. The initiative, which is be- 
coming more and more popular in connection with the 
referendum, provides that after a petition asking for a 
certain legislation has been signed by a definite per- 
centage of the legal voters of the state, this legislation 
must be submitted to popular vote. 

By means of the referendum and initiative the people 
keep a check upon the law making activities of the legis- 
lature and help to curb any attempts by their representa- 
tives to place upon the statutes laws that would not 
coincide with their own belief of what is good for the 
public. 

The executive branch of the state government differs 
from that of the Federal in that the latter finds its execu- 



78 STATE GOVERNMENT 

tive power vested in a president, who is the only execu- 
tive officer elected, the others being appointed by him. 
The executive power of the state is vested in a number of 
officers, both elected and appointed, among whom is the 
governor. In most states, other executive officers are the 
lieutenant governor, the secretary of state, treasurer, 
auditor, attorney general, and councillors. This execu- 
tive power, however, is limited, as the actual carrying 
out of the laws depends upon those local officers chosen 
by the towns, counties and cities. 

The governor is elected by the voters of the state and 
must be, in most states, a citizen for a certain number 
of years and he must have resided within the state from 
one to ten years. It is his duty to see that all laws are 
enforced ; but much of the carrying out of these laws is 
delegated to officials over whom he has but slight control. 
He is commander-in-chief of the state military and naval 
forces and may call them out to put down rebellion and 
the like. His legislative powers rest in the fact that he 
sends a message to the legislature at the beginning of 
each session, recommending the measures which he be- 
lieves necessary for passage. He has power to adjourn 
the legislature if the two houses disagree on a certain 
time for adjournment, and he can call them together in 
special session if the occasion requires it. The governor 
has, in most states, the power of veto. 

The governor has the right to grant pardons and 
reprieves to convicted criminals. In certain states he is 
required by law to submit to the legislature an annual 
budget, containing a definite account of all expenses to 
be incurred by the state during the coming year. He 
also has the power of appointment of lesser officials. 



STATE GOVERNMENT 79 

The duties of the other principal executive officers 
are in substance as follows : the lieutenant-governor pre- 
sides over the senate, and in case of the governor's death 
or removal from office, he succeeds to the office ; the sec- 
retary of state sees to the making and keeping of the 
records; the treasurer keeps the public money ; the 
auditor supervises all public accounts ; the attorney gen- 
eral is legal advisor of the governor and other officers, 
and in all cases of law to which the state is a party, he 
represents the commonwealth. Besides the above men- 
tioned officers a great deal of the administrative busi- 
ness of the state is entrusted to commissions, the members 
of which are almost always appointed by the governor 
with the consent of the senate. These boards or commis- 
sions are given a great deal of power by the legislature. 

In Massachusetts there is a. governor's council elected 
at large from councillor districts and this council forms 
an important part of the executive branch of govern- 
ment as an advisory body to the governor. 

The powers of the judicial branch of state government 
are vested in a system of courts. The superior courts 
hear appeals from the lower courts, and are themselves 
courts of higher original jurisdiction in both civil and 
criminal cases. The lower courts have jurisdiction over 
a small district, while the superior courts have jurisdic- 
tion over a greater area. The supreme courts are the 
highest courts, and in many states have nothing but 
appellate jurisdiction. Intermediary courts have been 
established to lighten the work of the more advanced 
courts wherever it was deemed necessary. 

In most of the states the judges of the different courts 
are chosen by the voters; in others they are appointed 



80 STATE GOVERNMENT 

by the governor, and again by the legislature. In Massa- 
chusetts all the judges are appointed by the governor 
with the consent of the council, and they hold office dur- 
ing good behavior. 

Justices of the peace, who have jurisdiction in minor 
cases, and notaries public are appointed in Massachusetts 
by the governor and council for a term of seven years. 

STATE LEGISLATIVE HEARING 

Persons Properties 

Chairman of Committee Good sized tables (3) 

Committeemen (six) Small tables (2) 

Leader for Proponents Chairs (8) 

Leader for Opponents Gavel 

Speakers for Proponents (2) A Mock Bill 

Speakers for Opponents (2) Questions (6 sets) 
Reporters (2) 

INSTRUCTIONS 

As we approach the study of state government, it has 
seemed wise to choose two departments of the legislature 
for demonstration, because no other state functions so 
nearly touch our lives and homes. We look to the mu- 
nicipal police for our protection, and to the county courts, 
for justice, but beyond both are the law-making bodies 
of the state and the nation. 

First we shall demonstrate a legislative committee hear- 
ing, and then a session of the House. The hearing natu- 
rally comes first because all measures that come to the 
legislature must run the gauntlet of a committee before 1 
final action can be taken. 

After the more elaborate performance of the alder- 
manic board and eounty court, this will be a relief, for 
lacking nothing in its possibilities for entertainment, its 



STATE GOVERNMENT 81 

preparation is very simple. If possible, select for your 
chairman and speakers members of the class who may 
be familiar with hearings. The other members of the 
committee need only be bright and alert enough to choose 
the right or convenient time for questioning the speakers. 
The questions, framed from the models given on page 94 
should be written on slips of paper and distributed to the 
committee at any time before the actual performance; 
but the speeches for proponents and opponents need more 
preparation. Choose for speakers, if possible, those peo- 
ple who hold decided opinions on the subject of the bill, 
and then urge them to use their own material in their 
pleas. The model discussions should be a last resort. 
One of the speakers for each side should act in the capac- 
ity of a leader, speaking first and calling on his colleagues 
to follow him. 

The chairman must read the bill and be the most 
prominent questioner. It also falls to his lot to conduct 
the proceedings and keep order in the committee room. 
If the leader of the class decides to use the model bill 
given in this chapter for the demonstration, it will hardly 
be necessary to copy it ; the book can be used for that 
purpose and concealed among a sheaf of papers on the 
chairman's desk. As the bill suggested may not always 
be timely or appropriate, a different one can be framed 
with a little care by following the model or, better still, 
a real bill which is not at all difficult to obtain, may be 
used. 

The reporters are, as in the other demonstrations, but 
part of the scene, appearing to listen attentively and 
take notes. 

The tables and chairs are arranged as in the diagram 



82 



STATE GOVERNMENT 



below and it will be much more realistic if some of the 
committee are not in their places at the opening o$ the 
hearing but come straggling in. It will be equally real- 
istic to have some one of them called out by a mock page 
or even to have them all summoned at one time for a 
roll call in the House, by the ringing of a bell. This 
would give the audience a recess for a minute or two. 

DIAGRAM OF COMMITTEE ROOM 



Committee 

o o 



Chairman 

o 



Committee 

o o 



Reporters 



Reporters 



Proponents 

o o o 



+ Speakers 
stand h 



Opponents 

o o o 



Audience 



DEMONSTRATION 

It will be advisable in giving the story of the state 
before this demonstration, to emphasize the history of a 
bill through the legislature from its inception to its final 
approval or veto by the governor. (See Story of State 



STATE GOVERNMENT 83 

Legislature, Chapter VI.) When this is clearly in the 
minds of the class, let the chosen participants be called 
to take the places arranged for them at the front of the 
room (see diagram on preceding page), the speakers for 
and against the bill taking the front seats in the audi- 
ence. 

The chairman of the Committee on Mercantile Affairs 
will open proceedings by striking the desk with his gavel 
and explaining that this hearing will last two hours, one 
hour to be given to the proponents and one to the oppo- 
nents. He then adds that no expression of approval or 
disapproval will be allowed by the audience. This rule, 
by the way, must be enforced to the letter during the 
session. If rapping loudly with the gavel will not bring 
results, the chairman must speak severely. At this place 
the chairman may read the model bill for the benefit of 
the audience. 

As is customary, the leader of the proponents speaks 
first. He stands directly in front of the chairman with 
his back to the audience ; he may turn from time to time 
to look about, but he is, of course, addressing the com- 
mittee. In this demonstration let the first speaker sum- 
marise briefly the arguments that his side mean to use, 
very much as the first attorney in the court demonstra- 
tion stated the case. When he has finished he will say— 
"Mr. Chairman, I would like to call on Mrs. So-and-So 
(using the right name of the next speaker), to further 
present this matter." 

When Mrs. So-and-So has come forward, the chair 
asks her full name and address, and this all the com- 
mitteemen appear to write down. Let her talk be some- 



84 STATE GOVERNMENT 

what in the nature of testimony, as this gives a better 
opening for the questions. All through the speaking, 
questions are in order, and these may be either the 
model questions or any others, no matter how facetious, 
that can be thought of. The witnesses or speakers must 
answer respectfully and are not supposed to get into 
arguments with members of the committee. Before ask- 
ing a question, the committeemen obtain permission of 
the chairman in this way — "Mr. Chairman, may I ask 
the speaker a question?" The chairman merely nods. 

The third speaker for the proponents is next intro- 
duced by the leader and any facts concerning his fitness 
to speak on the subject under discussion may be added. 
When the third speaker is finished the leader indicates 
that his side has completed their case, and the chair asks 
if there are any further questions the committee wish 
to ask before the opponents are heard. 

The case for the opponents is carried on in exactly 
the same manner as for the proponents. Let it be borne 
in mind that the questions are the real life of the demon- 
stration and they should not be allowed to lag. "When 
there are no very excellent arguments available, the 
speakers can always fall back on what is known as 
"spread-eagle" material, figuratively waving the Amer- 
ican flag and making the eagle scream. 

As this demonstration progresses, it will be found to 
move by its own momentum. The participants will 
warm up to their work and when both sides have been 
heard and the last speaker bows and thanks' the chair- 
man and committee for their courtesy, the discussion 
will still be going on as the audience move out. 

We have not planned in this demonstration for a 



STATE GOVERNMENT 85 

rebuttal but this is admissible, although if this is planned 
for less time can be allowed each side. 

MODEL BILL 1 

House No. 711 

Bill accompanying the petition of C. P. Bones relative 
to the censoring of motion picture films or reels. Mer- 
cantile Affairs — January 12. 

THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS 
In the year one thousand nine hundred and twenty 

AN ACT 

Relative to Motion Picture Films or Reels and to the 

censoring of Same for Public Exhibition. 

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 

in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the 

same as follows : 

Section 1. It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, 
lease or have in their possession for exhibition to minors 
any motion picture film or reel that has not first been 
submitted to the Board of Review, hereinafter in this 
act called the Board. 

Section 2. The Board shall consist of five members, — 
one mother, one educator, one clergyman, one woman's 
club member and one dramatic critic, all residents of 
Massachusetts and all qualified by education and experi- 
ence to act as censors under this act. They shall be 
appointed by the governor for terms of two years and 
be eligible for re-appointment. The governor at his 
pleasure may remove a member of said Board for incom- 
petency or for neglect of duty. 

Section 3. A vacancy in the membership of said Board 
shall be filled by the governor for the unexpired term, 

% i Xo effort has been made to draw up what is known as a legal 
bill. The one object has been to give it sufficient subject matter 
to insure livelv discussion in its consideration. 



86 STATE GOVERNMENT 

and a vacancy shall not impair the right and duty of 
the remaining members of said Board to perform all the 
functions of the Board. 

Section 4. The Board shall procure and use an official 
seal, which shall contain the words — "Massachusetts 
State Board of Censorship." A reproduction of this 
seal shall be stamped upon a metal badge which mem- 
bers of this Board shall be privileged to wear. 

Section 5. The Board shall examine films, reels, folders, 
posters and advertising matter used in connection there- 
with to be exhibited to minors in the state of Massa- 
chusetts, and shall approve such films, reels, folders, 
posters and advertising matter which are moral and 
proper and shall disapprove such as are cruel, obscene, 
indecent or immoral or such as tend to debase or corrupt 
morals. 

Section 6. The Board shall keep a record of all examina- 
tions made of films or reels, noting on the record such 
as have been approved and those not approved, with the 
reasons for such disapproval. 

Section 7. The governor shall designate one of the mem- 
bers of said Board as chairman and such person shall be 
administrative head of the Board. The chairman of the 
Board shall receive an annual salary of two thousand 
dollars and the other members one thousand each to- 
gether with the necessary expenses incurred in carrying 
out the provisions of this act. 

Section 8. The Board shall appoint, with the approval 
of the governor, such assistants as may be necessary to 
adequately cover all moving picture houses in the Com- 
monwealth of Massachusetts. Their compensation shall 
be fixed by the Board. 

Section 9. The Board may make and adopt such reason- 
able rules and regulations as it may deem necessary, 
not inconsistent with the laws of the state for enforcing 
the provisions of this act. 

Section 10. Any member of the Board or assistant thereof 
may enter any place where films or reels are exhibited 



STATE GOVERNMENT 87 

to minors and such member or assistant is hereby em- 
powered and authorized to prevent the display or exhi- 
bition of any film, reel or of any banner or poster used 
in connection therewith which has not been duly ap- 
proved by the Board — first displaying his official badge. 

Section 11. Any person violating any provision of this 
act or any rule or regulation of the Board shall be guilty 
of a misdemeanor and on conviction thereof shall be 
punished by a fine not exceeding fifty dollars for the 
first offense and not less than one hundred dollars nor 
more than five hundred dollars for each succeeding of- 
fense or imprisonment for ninety days in the county 
jail. Each day an uncensored film or reel is exhibited 
shall be deemed a separate offense. 

Section 12. This act to become effective thirty days after 
its passage. 

MODEL SPEECH FOR LEADER OF PROPONENTS 

Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Committee, there 
has been no time in the history of this Commonwealth when 
Massachusetts has not been in the front ranks of progress. 
Pioneers in democracy, in education, in abolition; acknowl- 
edged leader in literature and arts, we can truthfully 
boast that our greatest contribution to the world and our 
country has been in the matter of reform. When our fore- 
fathers landed on this rocky, storm-tossed coast, it was 
for the purpose of ridding themselves and their children 
and their children's children from the evil influence en- 
gendered by the court of the Stuart kings. After a century 
and a half of normal living the degeneracy of the royal 
governors and their followers again became offensive to the 
worthies of the old Bay State and who shall say how large 
a share this zeal for decency bore in the- efforts that finally 
rid our shores of the Hanoverian rule. Previous to the 
war of the Rebellion no true son of Massachusetts but was 
revolted at the tales of the social laxity existing in the 
slave states; and history tells how large a part was ours 
in the abolition of slavery and its attendant evils. 



88 STATE GOVERNMENT 

Today our land, in spite of the deluge of blood that has 
purged the European countries, seems overrunning with 
sinister forces, — extravagance, lawlessness and sensuality — 
and perhaps there is no greater contributing cause to all 
these evils than the uncensored moving pictures that are 
being exhibited to our youth throughout the length and 
breadth of our land. 

We come here today, Mr. Chairman and gentlemen of 
the committee, to show you good and sufficient reasons why 
our beloved commonwealth should, and can be, once more 
a pioneer in this twentieth century reform. 

We are not speaking for ourselves alone. Behind us, 
urging us on to this appeal, are the Women's clubs, the 
pulpit, that part of the press that represents the thinkers 
of our land, the teachers in our schools and last but not 
least, your constituents in great numbers. Neither are we 
asking in this bill for the privilege to curtail the rights of 
grown men and women. As little would we think of dic- 
tating to you, sirs, as to the volumes you place on your 
library shelves. Mark me! we are asking only that the films 
or reels exhibited to the youth under 18 years of age be 
strictly censored. 

For many years a law has been in existence in this state 
prohibiting the sale of cigarettes to minors. There can bo 
no doubt in the mind of any thinking person that the false, 
unnatural, extravagant ideas of life on which our children 
feed in the moving picture houses are as productive of 
evil as the cigarette habit, and in the end as inimical to 
health. 

We have provided in our bill for a wise, enlightened cen- 
sorship, a censorship which will be competent to retain the 
educational and artistic and eliminate the cheap and the 
obnoxious. We have made provision for a small salary for 
each member of the board but not a living wage. This has 
been purposely planned to prevent membership on this 
board from becoming what is known as a political plum. 
It can be plainly seen that no one would take upon them- 
selves this work unless they were thoroughly interested 



STATE GOVERNMENT 89 

in the cause and were in a position to afford the time. 
In conclusion, let rne say, that in the proportion in which 
we have reduced the salaries for censors as compared with 
the salaries of the other government employees, in that 
same proportion have we increased the fines for the pun- 
ishment of the offense as mentioned in section 11 of this 
bill. 

SECOND SPEECH FOR PROPONENTS 

My name is I live at 

I am interested in this bill from several different stand- 
points; as a mother, as a Woman's Club member and as 
a teacher. I do approve of properly censored moving pic- 
tures for many reasons. I believe they have exceptional 
educational possibilities. I believe that they are a delight- 
ful recreation for the tired brain worker and that they are 
an invaluable entertainment for the poor and those of us 
in medium circumstances. Feeling as I do, it is my most 
earnest desire to see them put on a basis of helpfulness 
rather than hindrance to the well-being of our children. 
(She here illustrates their educational value.) 

As a mother I have noticed that the class of films shown 
blunts the appetitite of young people for really good read- 
ing — that like a diet of candy before a good square meal 
lessons seem very dull and tasteless after a thrilling melo- 
drama. I have also noticed that the temptation of the 
movies lures the child from necessary exercise in the open 
air. 

As a Woman's club member I deplore their lack of art, 
their unrealities and inaccuracies, the emphasis that is laid 
on the morbid and the melancholy and the shocking tendency 
toward the vulgar and the lewd. (She again illustrates.) 

As a teacher, I have come in contact most frequently 
with their evil effects. Not only do the moving picture 
absorb many hours that should be spent in necessary study, 
they also create a dissatisfaction with a young girl's normal 
condition in life by showing her an unreal, exaggerated, 
pernicious picture of the lives of other girls no older, ap- 



90 STATE GOVERNMENT 

parently, than herself. They create in her a desire for 
imitation out of proportion to her circumstances and very 
much at odds with propriety. (Illustrate.) They lay 
stress on sexuality and breed a disproportionate considera- 
tion of those matters. (Illustrate.) 

In the average boy they stimulate bravado, cruelty and 
often crime. (Illustrate) 

Therefore I am a great advocate of an intelligent and 
awakened censorship such as this bill proposes. 

THIRD SPEECH FOR PROPONENTS 

My name is , address The 

Banksmere, Beacon Street, Boston. I am here to speak 
for this bill with no ulterior motives whatsoever. I am 
not a clergyman nor an educator, a dramatic critic nor a 
member of a woman's club. I am not connected with the 
legitimate stage; in fact, I have no avocation at the present 
time whatsoever, unless you might concede me to be what 
is known as a "movie fan"? Be that as it may, I speak 
whereof I know when I make the statement that the present 
censorship of the moving pictures is entirely inadequate. 

(He then goes on to cite shocking examples of objection- 
able pictures.) 

OUTLINE OF THIRD SPEAKER'S SPEECH 

Introduction (above). 

1. Why he favors a state rather than a local censorship. 

2. Points out that this bill does not interfere with the 

rights of adults but refers only to censorship for minors. 

3. Suggests separate performances for adults and minors 

and increase of admission fee to cover extra expense. 

4. Meets the argument put forward by newspaper interests 

that this bill is an entering wedge to censorship of 
the press. 

5. Elaborates upon the possibilities of carefully chosen 

films for the young, stimulating good citizenship, pro- 
moting morality and assisting education. 



STATE GOVERNMENT 91 

MODEL SPEECH FOR LEADER OF OPPONENTS 

Mr. Chairman and gentlemen of the committee, it is with 
a keen sense of gratitude for the type of men who comprise 
this Mercantile Affairs Committee that I rise to address 
you as an opponent of this ridiculous, illogical, pathetically 
unpractical bill which is before you today. Did I not 
know and appreciate the fact that you are practical men 
of affairs, much above the average in intelligence, I should 
give the whole matter up in despair, so distressing has been 
the effect upon me of what I have been listening to here this 
evening. 

So great has been my amazement at the arguments pre- 
sented to your Honored Committee by the proponents of 
this bill, that I have at times been obliged to rouse myself 
to the consciousness of the fact that I am really in a 
committee room in our own revered State House, rather 
than in a country high school listening to a symposium of 
students. 

Even a high school boy would not have made some of 
the misstatements I have listened to during the last hour. 
Far be it from me to deny that our New England ancestors 
were sturdy, upright, God-fearing men, and that they came 
to this country with the intent to worship God as they 
chose; but if there is one blight upon their otherwise stain- 
less record, it is that, having once established the form of 
worship most consonant with their beliefs, they straightway 
proceeded to persecute all men who claimed a like privilege, 
if it chanced not to coincide with theirs. From this, Mr. 
Chairman and gentlemen, I see a direct result today in the 
efforts of their bigoted progeny to dictate in the matter of 
the other man's choice of amusement. I am myself a 
descendant of Governor Thomas Hutchinson and I resent 
the implication cast upon the Royal Colonial governors 
and their followers. I also deny with avidity, the charge 
of degeneracy among them. 

As for the statement concerning New England's reason 
for participation in the War of the Rebellion ; I would like 



92 STATE GOVERNMENT 

to point out that that statement emphasizing a trivia] 
detail in the vicious and unholy practice of slavery, is 
typical of all we have been hearing from the proponents 
of this bill. 

At no time have they touched upon the kernel of this 
matter, which is that the moving picture business is one 
of the three greatest industries of our country today, and 
as such is upholding our prosperity. Need I add that our 
country's prosperity should be the paramount issue to each 
and all of us, because it is the cornerstone upon which 
every other condition rests. That these good people are 
laying the ax at the root of it cannot be disguised by the 
flimsy suggestions relative to separate performances made 
by the gentleman who immediately preceded me. 

But I am encroaching upon the time of my colleague, 
who will take up this bill, section by section, and con- 
vince you of its uselessness as a working proposition. Mr. 
is a lawyer of international fame, who, as an author- 
ity upon the soundness and legality of legislative bills, 
has no superior and few equals. 

I cannot conscientiously conclude, however, until I have 
entered a vigorous protest against the suggestion made by 
the last speaker, to increase the rates of admission to mov- 
ing picture performances. If there is one subject that is 
more on the nerves of the long suffering American people 
than the constant increase of living costs, I do not know 
what it is. Now along comes this worthy gentleman, ad- 
mitting that he lives most comfortably on inherited wealth 
and nonchalantly, inhumanly suggests placing the one diver- 
sion within the reach of the great mass of sweating, struggl- 
ing labor, where none but the upper classes may avail 
themselves of it. And he calls this altruism, philanthropy, 
moral uplift, whatnot. God spare us from our benefactors ! 

SECOND SPEECH OF OPPONENTS 

I shall have to preface my remarks tonight by disclaim- 
ing the kindly meant, but really inaccurate description of 
your humble servant that was given by , 



STATE GOVERNMENT 93 

the first speaker for the opponents. I am unfortunately not 
one or any of the things he so geneorusly attached to me. 
However, I have less regret on this particular occasion 
in the consciousness of the truth of my statement than I 
am accustomed to feel, because for once my poor attain- 
ments are sufficient to handle the matter before us. So 
obviously poor and inadequately, even for the purpose for 
which it was intended, is this House Bill No. 711. 

In Sec. 1, the speaker points out the difficulty of en- 
forcement, illustrating by the flagrant abuse of the law 
relative to the sale of cigarettes to minors. 

Section 2 he designates as a wild flight of impractica- 
bility and points out the grave danger of any censorship 
becoming a cog in the political wheel. 

He ridicules the idea of the seal and badge and says it 
would require a second censorship to guard its use. 

He upholds the present censorship and maintains that 
the necessity for any is grossly exaggerated. 

Concerning Section 7 he becomes much excited on the 
subject of a living wage — and says the result of an inade- 
quate salary would be to demoralize the whole wage scale 
of government employees. The loophole for expenses fos- 
ters dishonesty. 

Section 8 does not hold water. As written it would admit 
half the population of Massachusetts as assistants to the 
Censorship Board. Section gives for too much power to 
the Board. 

Section 10 excites him to invective against the injustice 
of the 18th amendment. 

When he arrives at Section 11 and 12 he delivers a 
peroration on the defects of the whole. 

THIRD SPEECH FOR OPPONENTS 

My name is , unmarried. I am 

a settlement worker at I feel that, living 

as I do among the poor, the aliens and the social outcasts, 
I am in a position to know whereof I speak when I say 
that this bill as framed would be a very grave mistake. I 



STATE GOVERNMENT 

am not here to declare for the exhibition of entirely un- 
censored moving pictures. There is no one who would more 
truly appreciate the blessing that would accrue from only 
beautiful, strong, true and morally uplifting films; but the 
separation of the performances would work a great hard- 
ship upon thousands. (Paints picture of mother with five 
little children, living in. tenement, no yard, too far from 
parks, all day over the wash tubs, unable to take children 
with her to the movies, no one with whom to leave them 
at home.) 

If it is true also that this separation of performances 
would make it imperative to increase the price of admission, 
I say "no" and again "no" ! To you people who live ever 
in the sunshine of life where it is only a matter of choice 
in what way you take your recreation, and to whom the 
moving pictures are simply a fad, a slight innovation from 
the legitimate stage, or a choice of convenience, I would 
say this. They are a tremendous factor in making life 
livable for my poor people. 

1. A physical relaxation in a more attractive place than 

their homes. 

2. Requires less energy than to read or dance. 

3. A diversion for the slaves of habit. 

4. An opportunity for the sick to forget their pains. 

5. A picture of a life less sordid that they may share 

for a while. 
G. Instruction in the refinements of life. 
7. Educational and often morally uplifting. 

MODEL QUESTIONS 

Section 1. Are you a direct descendant of the Puritans'? 

Did your ancestors burn witches, duck Quakers or drive 

Baptists into the wilderness"? 

Do you believe in the extradition of red radicals? 

"Were you a pro-German during the war 1 ? 

Do you stand for free press, free speech and free assem- 

blyt 
Section 2. Do you attend the movies regularly? 



STATE GOVERNMENT 95 

Did you ever go to a good musical show? 

Do you consider public dance halls a grave menace to 

the young? 
Section 3. How do you earn your living? 

Do you believe it justifiable for a man in possession of 

all his faculties and good health besides, to live upon 

inherited wealth? 

Are you looking for a position as a member of this Board ? 

Are you an admirer of Attorney General Palmer and 

Postmaster Burleson? 

I judge your fortune is not invested in moving picture 

stock? 
Section 4. Are you interested in the moving picture busi- 
ness? 

"What is your profession or avocation? 

If social laxity is trivial, what do you consider a grave 

evil? 

Would you prefer an epidemic of the "flu" to a panic in 

the stock market? 

Where does the high cost of living hit you hardest? In 

the price of gasoline? 
Section 5. Would you say that the movies were a substi- 
tute for the saloon? 

What do you do for the alien at a settlement house? 

Is it really any of your business how other people live? 

Doesn't religious instruction give the necessary moral 

uplift? 
Section 6. Do you make a special study of legislative 

bills and their construction? 

Do you believe in any censorship of moving pictures? 

Why don't you write a better bill? 

In whose interests do you appear here? 

Are you a stockholder in a newspaper? 

If you believe that the laborer is worthy of his hire why 

shouldn't you be well paid for appearing here for those 

who are interested in picture houses and newspapers? 



CHAPTEE VI 
STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

It is through the earnest efforts of those elected to 
the legislature of a state that the people at large are 
assured of good substantial laws which will protect their 
property and persons. Although a great many states 
have the privilege of the initiative and referendum, which 
gives the citizens a direct opportunity to suggest and 
approve laws, nevertheless the greater part of the legis- 
lation is controlled by the Senate and House of Repre- 
sentatives, with the approval of the governor. 

The people should make it a part of their life to be 
sure that only persons are elected to the legislature who 
will faithfully represent them. They should also be 
intelligent concerning the legislative machinery in use 
by their representatives and its possibilities for progress 
and retardation, therefore the authors of this book have 
chosen to develop for enlightenment the demonstration 
of a session of a lower House. The demonstration will 
follow very closely the machinery of law-making as con- 
ducted in the House of Representatives of Massachu- 
setts. 

The Senate and House each has its own rules and 
regulations, and although they may vary somewhat in 
the different states, on the whole the procedure from 
the opening of a session to adjournment follows prac- 
tically the same lines in each legislative body. 

96 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 97 

At the early sessions of each new body of representa- 
tives the officers of the House are chosen, with the senior 
member of that body presiding. Following the choice of 
Speaker, the latter appoints the standing committees 
upon which will fall the heavy burden of carefully 
studying the thousands of bills, petitions, resolutions 
and orders which are referred to them for their delibera- 
tion. It is the work of the committees which greatly 
facilitates the handling of so much legislation by the 
House, and therefore the Speaker should exercise great 
care and judgment in his appointments of the individual 
members on the committees; the member first named 
acts as chairman. The important committees are known 
as the committee on Rules — Speaker chairman ; Ways 
and Means; Judiciary; Elections; Bills in the Third 
Reading; Engrossed Bills; Pay-roll. Also there are a 
great many joint committees made up of members from 
both branches. 

It should be understood that the session, as demon- 
strated in this chapter, deals only with the final stage 
of a bill in its process of enactment, and that the steps 
through which it supposedly has passed must be imagined 
by the class through its general understanding of the 
whole procedure as described in the next few paragraphs. 

If a citizen or a group of citizens wish to present a 
petition for a certain piece of legislation, the petition 
must be filed, accompanied by the bill which explains 
the details of the legislation prayed for, before five 
o'clock of the second Saturday following the first Wed- 
nesday of the opening of the session. This petition must 
be endorsed by a senator or a representative and filed 
with the clerk of the Senate or House. Bills may not 



98 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

be admitted after that time without special recommen- 
dation of the Rules Committee of both branches and 
the acceptance of the said committees report by the mem- 
bers of the General Court. It requires a two-thirds 
vote of those present and voting in each branch to defeat 
a report of the Committee on Rules. 

After the petition has been duly filed with the Clerk, 
before its presentation to the Speaker, it is given a num- 
ber and printed. The Speaker reads its title and refers 
it to the appropriate committee. The committee, on 
receipt of the bill, plans for a public hearing which is 
a citizen's right under the Constitution. A daily list 
is printed containing the notices of all the hearings as 
arranged by the committee together with the time and 
room in which the hearing will be held. It is before 
such a hearing that the proponents and opponents of 
the bill are given a chance to present their views and 
then the committee, carefully weighing all the matter 
as presented, vote as to the disposition of the bill ; mem- 
bers may dissent from the majority report or they ma}' 
reserve their rights on how to vote when the bill reaches 
the House. The committee may report the bill back to 
the House without change or it may redraft the bill. 
Ordinary bills, if consideration is unfavorable, are re- 
ported back to the House (1) leave to withdraw, (2) 
reference to next General Court, (3) ought not to pass. 
Bills concerning financial matters are reported (1) ought 
not to pass, (2) reference to next General Court. On 
both the above kinds of bills a favorable report may be 
made. 

The reading of a committee's report of a bill consti- 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 99 

tutes what is called the first reading of the bill. If this 
report is favorable, or if the bill is one the rejection of 
which is negatived by a vote of the House, it is placed 
in the Orders for the next day. The same is applicable 
to reports of*" leave to withdraw" or "reference to the 
next General Court." A bill is seldom debated on its 
first reading. 

The bill comes before the House the next day and is 
read for the second time under the Orders of the Day, 
in its regular turn. It is debated and may be amended, 
following which it is ordered to a third reading. The 
rules may be suspended by motion and vote, and the 
bill read for the third time. If, however, the bill is 
ordered to a third reading, it shall be referred to the 
committee on Bills in the third reading for examination, 
correction and report. After passage in its third read- 
ing, when it is reported back from committee the bill 
is sent to be engrossed in concurrence with the other 
branch of the legislature. No bill is passed to be en- 
grossed without having been read on three several days. 
Engrossed bills are referred to the committee on En- 
grossed Bills for examination, comparison and report. 

When the engrossed bill has been duly found by the 
committee to be rightly and truly engrossed, the com- 
mittee so endorses the envelope thereof, and, when the 
bill is so reported, the question comes on the passage of 
the bill for enactment without further reading, unless 
especially ordered. 

After enactment the bill is signed by the speaker and 
sent to the Senate after due notice is given by the 
speaker. 



100 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 



INSTRUCTIONS 



Persons 


Properties 


Speaker 


Journal 


Clerk 


Calendars (for each one) 


Sergeant-at-Arms 


Petitions 


Monitors 


Resolutions 


Pages 


List for Roll Call 


Chaplain 


Arm' Chairs 


Members of House 


Stand or Desks 


Door Keepers 


Gavel 


Reporters 


Bills 




Imitation Law Books 






EEE 


A. Speaker 


F. Membera 


B. Clerk 


G. Pages 


C. Sergeant-at-Arms 


H. Doorkeepers 


D. Platform 


I. Railing 


E. Armchairs 




(Chaplain may use one) 





J. Reporters 

(May be placed 

In any convenient 

part of Bouse) 



Diagram 



Those who are to produce this demonstration should 
plan to secure a hall or a good sized room in which 
there is a platform. If the class or group is large, or 
if a large audience is expected, it would be well to rent 
a small theater which could be easily arranged to re- 
semble an auditorium of a House of Representatives. 
However, the latter is not absolutely necessary and a 
schoolroom will do very well. 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 101 

The Speaker's chair should be raised above the rest of 
the seats in the room on a stage or platform. An arm- 
chair would serve as an excellent background for the 
presiding officer in that it would add a great deal of dig- 
nity to that individual while occupj^ing it. If such 
chairs are available two others to be placed one on either 
side of the speaker might also be used. These should 
be placed at the back of the stage or platform, while at 
the front should be placed a stand, perhaps a pulpit, to 
be used by the speaker. 

At the right of the Speaker as he stands in position to 
address the House, should be placed a desk or a table 
for the clerk, while on the other side the same for the 
sergeant-at-arms. On all of the desks and tables should 
be placed (by the sergeant-at-arms) papers, pencils, pens 
and ink, and books resembling law books. A gavel 
should be in readiness on the Speaker's stand for hard 
usage if occasion demands. 

From the models which are given in this chapter a 
journal should be prepared by the clerk and submitted 
to the speaker before the demonstration begins. This 
may be written in long hand or typed, although the 
journals, bills and calendars are always printed before 
they are brought before the House. 

The calendar may also be prepared from the model, 
and a copy placed at each seat before the session 
opens ; of course the Speaker should be provided with 
one. 

Petitions and bills containing the details and subject 
matter of those whose titles are given in the calendar 
(see page 106) should be ready for the demonstration. 
All of them which are to come up for action during the 



102 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

session should be in the hands of the Speaker when he 
opens the House for business. 

It would be well for every member to have a chance 
to study the model bills as prepared, and after the ses- 
sion the leader of the class should have them passed out 
for that purpose. 

By studying the model resolution (see page 108) it will 
be seen that it was introduced by the Federal Government 
through its acting Secretary of State. This notice of 
the passage of the 19th Amendment was received by the 
Governor, who passed it on to the Senate and House for 
approval or otherwise, and, as is stated a little further 
on, it has passed the Senate and is now before the House 
for enactment, after having been to the Committee on 
Engrossed Bills. 

A roll call should be prepared by the clerk containing 
the names in alphabetical order of all the members who 
are to take part as representatives in the demonstration. 

Seat the members according to the diagram on page 100. 
It will be seen that places are reserved on the left of 
the Speaker for certain committees, but as the committees 
will play only an imaginary part in the actual demon- 
stration it is not necessary to provide extra desks and 
chairs for them. 

It has been suggested in other instructions that the 
person chosen for such a position as moderator or presi- 
dent of a board of aldermen should be one who pos- 
sesses executive ability, keen intellect, wit, and a knowl- 
edge of parliamentary procedure. The instructions for 
picking out an individual for Speaker of the House are 
not exceptions to the rule. But, on the other hand, in 
order to develop the members of the class or organiza- 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 103 

tion along these special lines of government it is urgent 
that the honors of the main places in each demonstration 
should not fall upon the same heads each time. 

It is of insistence, however, that the Speaker should 
be acquainted with the procedure of conducting such a 
large body as a House of Representatives. The Speaker 
shall preserve decorum and order, may speak to points 
of order in preference to other members, and shall de- 
cide questions of order, subject to an appeal to the House. 
He shall declare all votes subject to verification. In all 
cases he may vote. He shall rise to put a question, or 
to address the House, but may read sitting. If the leg- 
islature of the state in which this chapter is being pro- 
duced is in session it would be well for the person chosen 
Speaker, and in fact, those in all of the important parts, 
to pay several visits to the State House and learn first 
hand the important details which it is difficult for the 
authors to give because of the lack of space. 

The clerk should be one who has had experience in 
taking the minutes of meetings, preferably the secretary 
of the organization or the class. 

Although the daily session of a House is always opened 
with prayer by the chaplain it is not absolutely impera- 
tive that such a part enter into the demonstration. 

There should be several pages who pretend to run 
here and there to carry a message from one representa- 
tive to another; or to go out into the lobby or imaginary 
committee rooms. 

Monitors are appointed, the number depending on the 
size of the class. Each represents one division of the 
House ; they must see that the rules are observed by the 
members in their respective divisions, and they must 



104 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

return the number of votes when called upon to do so 
by the speaker. 

A special table may be reserved for real or imaginary 
representatives of newspapers. 

No member shall stand up, to the inconvenience of 
others, while a member is speaking ; or pass unnecessarily 
between the Speaker of the House and the member speak- 
ing, or stand in the passages, or in the area in front of the 
chair, or stand in front of the clerk's desk while a roll 
call is in progress. A member, when about to speak, shall 
rise and respectfully address the Speaker; he shall con- 
fine himself to the question under debate, and avoid 
personalities. No member shall interrupt another while 
speaking, except by rising to a point of order. 

A motion need not be seconded, and may be withdrawn 
by the mover if no objection is made. A motion to ad- 
journ shall always be first in order, and shall be decided 
without debate ; and on the motions to lay on the table, 
for the previous question, to close debate at a specified 
time, to postpone to a certain time, to commit or re- 
commit, a period not exceeding ten minutes shall be 
allowed for debate, and no member shall speak more 
than three minutes. 

No appeal from the decision of the Speaker shall be 
entertained unless it is seconded; and no other business 
shall be in order until the question on the appeal has 
been disposed of. 

The article which the authors chose for the class to 
feature is the one numbered No. 766 on the model calen- 
dar. It must be remembered that this resolution has 
supposedly had its first, second and third readings, has 
just returned from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 105 

and comes now before the House for enactment. Several 
bills have been placed upon the calendar, but as they are 
only samples none of them need be used. In fact the 
class does not have to use the feature resolution of the 
session — that of the ratification of the nineteenth amend- 
ment, but this was chosen because of its timely interest 
and as offering a fine opportunity for debate. 

MODEL PETITION * 

To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives of 
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in General Court 
assembled. 

The undersigned, citizens of 

respectfully 

(The petition is backed as follows) 

Petition House 

Mr 

of 

presents the petition of 

(Accompanied by bill, House, No ) 

HOUSE OF REPS., 192. . 

Referred to Committee on 

. . Sent up for concurrence. 

, Clerk. 

SENATE, 192.. 

The Senate concurs, 

, Clerk. 

i The petition should be a four page pamphlet 10" x 8" with 
the above greeting, and all the space below the greeting should 
contain, in substance, that for which the petitioners pray and 
the legislation sought, together with the signature of each peti- 
tioner, with his address. Additional leaves may be inserted if 
needed. 

The whole pamphlet should be folded twice with the greeting 
and name remaining on the inside, and the outside bearing the 
data to be filled in. 



106 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

MODEL BLANK ACT 1 

(Same size pamphlet as petition, and to be folded the same) 
(Inside when folded) 
Accompanying the petition 

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts 

In the year One Thousand Nine Hundred and 
(State) 
(Seal) 

AN ACT 

Whereas, 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 
in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the 
same, as follows: 

SECTION 1 

The Bill is backed as follows : 

HOUSE BILL, NO 

MODEL CALENDAR 

No. 39 

House of Representatives 

Calendar 

For Tuesday, March 16, 1920 

Orders of the Day 

Unfinished Business 

763. Bill relative to the drawing of compensation by in- 

jured employees. (Question on ordering to a sec- 
ond reading) 
(Chairman of Committee) 

764. Bill to abolish the office of chief of police in the city 

of Relmose. (Chairman of Committee) (No. of 
reading) 

765. Bill to authorize city of Poorfield to borrow money 

for purpose of additional school facilities. 

1 Use one side of paper only. Insert additional leaves if nec- 
essary. Dates and numbers (except section numbers) should be 
written in words. 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 107 

(Chairman of Committee) (No. of reading) 
(Committee recommends ought to pass) 

766. Resolution relating to the ratification of the proposed 

amendment to the Constitution of the United States 
relative to extending the Right of Suffrage to 
Women. (Chairman of Federal Relations Com- 
mittee) (No. of reading) (Question on enact- 
ment of resolution) 

767. Report of the Committee on Harbors and Water- 

ways, reference to next General Court, on the 
petition (accompanied by Bill, House No. 436) 
of F. Saltwater for protection by the Department 
of Public Works of the shores in the Town of 
Rivermouth. 

MODEL JOURNAL (10" x 6") 

Journal or the House 

Wednesday, June 2, 1920. 
Met according to adjournment, at half past ten o'clock 
A. m. Prayer offered by the Chaplain. 
Message from the Governor — Veto. 

The following message was received from His Excellency 
the Governor: 

Annual Reports 
The following annual reports received from the Secretary 
of the Commonwealth were severally placed on file : — 

Order 
The following order, offered by Mr. Oldman of Easton 
was referred under the rule, to the committees on Rules of 
the two branches acting concurrently: — 

Ordered, that 

Papers from the Senate 

Reports of Committees 

Engrossed Bills 

Orders of the Day 

Adjournment and Hour of Meeting 

L. Ed. Pencil, Clerk. 
( 1920) 



108 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

RESOLUTIONS 

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts 
In the Year One Thousand Nine Hundred and Twenty 

Resolutions 
Ratifying the proposed Amendment to the Constitution 
of the United States relative to extending the Right of 
Suffrage to Women. 

1. Whereas, the sixty -sixth Congress by both houses passed 

2. the following proposed amendment to the Constitution 

3. of the United States by a Constitutional majority of 

4. thirds, to wit, 

5. Joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Con- 

6. stitution extending the right of suffrage to Women. 

Article 

7. .The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall 

8. not be denied or abridged by the United States or by 

9. any state on account of sex. 

10. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by 

11. appropriate legislation. 

12. Resolved, That the said proposed amendment to the 

13. Constitution is hereby ratified by the Legislature of 

14. the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

15. Resolved, That a certified copy of the foregoing pre- 

16. amble and resolution be forwarded by the governor to 

17. the Secretary of State of the United States, in accord- 

18. ance with section two hundred and five of the revised 

19. statutes of the United States. 

House' No. 766 

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts 1 

House, 1920 

The Committee on Federal Relations to which was referred 
the message from the Governor transmitting a certified 
copy of a Resolution of Congress entitled "Joint Resolution 

1 This is the front page of the resolution and the whole pamph- 
let of four pagvs should be nine inches by six. This pamphlet is 
the model of the resolution after it lias heen printed and pre : 
sented to the House for distribution. The resolutions are con- 
tained on the second page of the pamphlet. 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 109 

proposing an Amendment to the Constitution extending 
the right of suffrage to ^vvomen," accompanied with a letter 
of the Honorable Acting Secretary of State (House, No. ) 
reports the accompanying Resolutions (House No. 766). 
For the Committee, 

A. Con. Gressman 

DEMONSTRATION 

As has been suggested in the instructions, the plans 
for this demonstration should be made a week or two 
before the production, including the choice of the leading 
parts and the arrangement of the hall. Although the 
details of this session may have been given to the mem- 
bers, it would be well to hold one rehearsal previous to 
the performance. 

The Speaker takes the chair at the hour to which the 
House stands adjourned, the time supposedly having 
been decided upon by the adjournment of a previous 
meeting. He calls the members to order with short, 
sharp raps of the gavel. If desired, the chaplain offers 
a short prayer. If a quorum is present, proceed to 
business. A quorum may be any number upon which 
the class may have decided. 

The Speaker then shall ask for petitions, memorials, 
remonstrance and such papers, and reports of committees. 
It would be well at this point to have a petition pre- 
sented by a member, for Mr. Hesa Widow and others, 
that the Bureau for the Purpose of Providing Husbands 
for Deserving Women be allowed to have its charter 
revived. The same member should move that the joint 
rule No. 23 of Senate and House be suspended, which 
rule contains a statement to the effect that a petition 



110 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

may be presented to the House, if said petition is offered 
in place of a former one, having in view the same ob- 
ject, upon which leave to withdraw was given because 
the same was not in proper form, provided that such 
subsequent petition is deposited with the clerk within 
one week from the day on which leave to withdraw 
was given. The above motion should be referred, under 
the rule, to the Committee on Rules. A member of 
said Committee reports for committee that it recom- 
mends the supervision of the joint rule No. 23. The 
report of the committee is considered under the suspen- 
sion of the rule, on motion of the member from Great 
Falls. The 23d joint rule is suspended, and the petition 
(accompanied by bill, House No. 267) is referred to the 
committee on Public Institutions, which is a joint stand- 
ing committee. It is then sent up for concurrence to 
the Senate. 

All through the above presentation of the petition the 
members should remember to observe the rules of pro- 
cedure; the Speaker should ever be alert, should allow 
no one to speak without first addressing the chair and 
being recognized in turn as Mr. So and So from such 
and such a place. The members taking part in the 
demonstration may use their own names or fictitious ones. 
Other papers may be read by the speaker who then 
asks ir there is any objection to proceeding with the 
orders of the day. No objection being noted the read- 
ing of the calendar proceeds in the following manner: 
Article 763. If no member says "Pass" which means 
that the bill in question is to be debated, passed over 
until the calendar has been exhausted, and then returned 
to for debate, the Speaker reads the bill and says "The 






STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 111 

question comes on the ordering of the bill to a third 
reading. Is there objection?" ; no objection being noted, 
the bill is ordered to a third reading. Of course it is 
not necessary to have the same subject matter for the 
bills as is given in the model calendar and perhaps it 
would make the session more interesting if the different 
members originated their own petitions and bills by fol- 
lowing carefully the models. As may be seen in the 
model calendar, Bill 763 relates to the drawing of com- 
pensation by injured employees who work in factories, 
or other places. After reading this title, if it appeals 
to the members as a possibility for debate, develop it 
for that purpose and have the full bill, including peti- 
tion, made out and passed to the clerk in the regular 
manner. If preparation has been made beforehand for a 
discussion on Bill 763, some member may move that the 
rules be suspended, which motion is passed, the bill is 
read for a third time and is passed to be engrossed, in 
concurrence. 

The speaker takes up the next article and proceeds 
in the same manner as before. This second article as 
given in the model calendar should give the class a good 
field for the introduction of humorous debate, for the 
chief of police of a community seldom satisfies all of the 
people in that community. 

Article 765. This bill might be "passed" and re- 
turned to for debate ; this, of course, is optional with the 
class, as is its mode of procedure with all of the above 
and following bills on the calendar. 

Article 766 is next called by the speaker, and several 
members immediately rise and address the chair, or re- 
main seated and shout the word "pass." This article 



112 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

then is left for the present, and 767 is called. The latter 
and as many more as may be on the calendar are handled 
according to the rules as given above, and after all the 
articles on the calendar have been taken up and disposed 
of in one way or another, the Speaker then returns to 
the first matter passed over. For the sake of brevity 
it will be taken for granted that Article 766 is the first 
and only one passed over. 

He reads "Article 766, — the question comes on the 
ordering of the resolution to be enacted, is there ob- 
jection?" Here, having been arranged beforehand, a 
certain member of the proponents of the resolution should 
rise, address the chair and be recognized. The debate 
now opens. Sample speeches will be found on pages 87 
and 89, but it is hoped that these will be used only as 
models for original discussions. 

Every device of parliamentary procedure and rules 
of the House should be used by the opponents and propo- 
nents of the resolution. The members should keep the 
Speaker ever awake to the fact that nothing should get 
by him which is not just according to the rules of debate. 
Because the session should not be long drawn out, 
and because interest and enthusiasm by the individuals 
in the class are the best teachers, a ruling should be 
made limiting the debates, to ten minutes for each per- 
son. It is well known that the opponents of the suffrage 
amendment have made a very bitter and hard fight to 
defeat it, before it was passed by the Federal Govern- 
ment and each state as it has come up for ratifica- 
tion. 

Those who oppose the resolution as it appears in the 
demonstration should follow the methods used by the 






STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 113 

real opponents. Learn the arguments so well that the 
part being played will be forgotten, thus real enthusi- 
asm will result. 

A proponent of the resolution on addressing the chair 
and being recognized may move the previous question 
in order to test the vote of the House, if it is felt that 
arguments of the opposition are too strong. In event 
that the Speaker rules the previous question, all debate 
shall cease when he says, "Shall the main question be 
now put?" except that the member having charge of 
the committee report may have ten minutes to close the 
debate. Although he is entitled to the time himself, he 
may give it to the House or assign it to some other mem- 
ber. On the previous question, debate should be allowed 
only to give reasons why the main question should not 
be put. The question is then stated by the Speaker 
and the sense of the House shall be taken by the voices 
of the members ; the Speaker shall first announce the 
vote as it appears to him by sound. If he is unable to 
decide by the sound of the voices, or if his announcement 
made thereupon is doubted by a member rising in his 
seat for that purpose, the Speaker shall then order a 
return by divisions of the number voting in the affirma- 
tive and in the negative without further debate on the 
question. 

When a return by divisions is ordered, the members 
for or against the question, when called on by the 
Speaker, shall rise in their places, and stand until they 
are counted. It is in the counting by divisions that 
monitors have one of their duties to perform. 

A member ma}', upon the taking of such a vote, doubt 
the presence of a quorum and then a count of the House 



114 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

shall be had, and if a quorum is present, the vote shall 
stand. 

The count should show the motion defeated in order 
that more discussion of the question may be had. A 
motion may be made at this point by an opponent of the 
resolution to postpone further debate on said resolution 
until one week from the present date. Before this mo- 
tion is put to a vote by the Speaker, another motion may 
be made by an opponent of the resolution to adjourn 
until eight o'clock the next evening. The motion to 
adjourn shall always be first in order and shall be decided 
without a debate. 

The Speaker may put the motion, if he rules it in 
order, and in doing so he shall say "The question comes 
on the passage of the motion," and the vote may be 
taken as described above. This should also be defeated, 
and then a return to the discussion of the main question 
is in order. According to a special ruling on the House 
Rules, a second motion for the previous question is out 
of order if the only business intervening between it and 
the prior motion for the previous question was the offer- 
ing of two amendments and the rejection of a motion 
to postpone. However, in the above motion for the 
previous question, it was followed by a motion to post- 
pone and a motion to adjourn, and although these two 
motions would not be considered important business, 
nevertheless as the main question is that of enactment 
of a resolution it would be in order for the Speaker to 
admit a new motion for the previous question which 
should come at this time. 

The Speaker now repeats as before when the main 
question was ordered, and those opposing the resolution 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 115 

should still continue to fight its enactment. Some one 
should again rise and doubt the Speaker's announcement 
of the vote by sound, and he shall accordingly order 
a return by divisions. To proceed further with the in- 
tricacies of voting, a call may be made to sense the 
feeling of the House by yeas and nays. This may be 
done if required by about ten per cent of the members 
present, although in the regular House of Massachusetts 
thirty members may require the taking of a vote by yeas 
and nays. When the yeas and nays are taken the roll 
of the House shall be called in alphabetical order, and 
no member shall be allowed to vote who was not on the 
floor before the vote was taken. 

After the Speaker finishes the calling of the roll he 
asks if all present have been recorded. If there are any 
w T ho have not been recorded, they rise at their seats and 
answer to their names as called by the Speaker. 

This call for the yeas and nays should be decided with- 
out debate. If the yeas and nays were ordered before 
the question was put, the proceedings as stated above 
in regard to the voice vote and return by divisions shall 
be omitted. 

Every member should answer clearly to his name 
when called by the clerk. On the final report of the 
vote taken, the resolution should receive a majority and 
be declared passed, and ready to go to the Governor, as 
the Senate has already passed the resolution. 

As the passage of the resolution concludes the busi- 
ness of the session, the motion is in order by some mem- 
ber of the House to adjourn. The Speaker proceeds to 
handle the motion as demonstrated before and the motion 
is carried-. 



116 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 



MODEL SPEECH FOR RATIFICATION OF THE 
NINETEENTH AMENDMENT 

Mr. Chairman a-nd Fellow Members of the General Court, 
my strongest feeling, as I rise to speak in favor of this 
measure which is before us today, is that what you or I 
shall say, or what others shall say wherever this Nineteenth 
Amendment appears for ratification, should be entirely 
unnecessary. I will go farther — I can imagine no reason 
why this just and righteous cause of woman's political 
equality should ever have been a debatable issue in any land 
or at any time. To those of you who are waiting eagerly 
at this moment to refute my last, if not my first state- 
ment, with specific examples of woman's apparent unfitness 
for this onerous task of voting I have a further word. 

In many of the faces turning toward mine I read your 
unspoken thoughts. You would tell me of the women of 
other climes, of other customs, of other colors than ours. 
You would cite the unfitness of the women of other social 
strata. I should hear . of the illiterate immigrant, of the 
social pariah and also, if you are just, of the social parasite. 

Oh, foolish and faithless generation of man! by whose 
hand has all this come upon your mother's sex, if not by 
your own 1 ? Who first drove her from her equal share in 
the world's work and jealously veiling her face, hid her 
in a harem away from God's good sunshine 1 ? Who first, 
assuming to himself the cleaner, nobler tasks of life, rele- 
gated her to the menial? Who, because of greed and lust, 
threw her into slavery? I answer, "Man and man alone, 
has done all this." Who deprived her of the schools and 
other opportunities for mental work, who filched from her 
the rights of property and tagged her as man's chattel 1 ? 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 117 

Who today is responsible for her presence in the under- 
world or who with equal cruelty, having stultified her better 
nature, smothers her with luxuries that warp her soul? 
You and you alone, my fellowmen (impressive pause). 

There is a saying that though a rose tree be grafted 
with a prickly pear, it will still bear a rose. Yes, thank 
God, although man has done his worst to pervert the 
original stock it still bears its Cornelias, its Joans of Arc, 
its Edith Cavels and millions of noble mothers. 
• I feel shame to have to remind you of women's share 
in the world's work today, woman's share in the war, 
woman's share in the cause of Christianity. That you could 
for a moment, hi your ridiculous egoism, refuse her this 
little thing for which she asks, her political enfranchise- 
ment. By what right is it yours preeminently'? Do you 
base your claims on divine rights'? If you cite St. Paul 
to me and his admonition to woman to hold her peace in 
the churches, I in turn remind you that he also said, "Prove 
all things, hold fast that which is good." More than a 
score of years ago the state of Wyoming unconsciously 
followed this latter advice of the great apostle. It proved 
woman's suffrage and has held fast to it ever since. When 
the government at Washington hesitated in admitting it 
to the full rights of a state because of the political equality 
of Wyoming's women, the men of the state replied, "We 
will remain a territory or come in with our women." 

Do you claim that you have done so preeminently well 
yourselves with the franchise 1 ? I ask you, can woman do 
worse than to buy and sell votes and use her political ad- 
vantages for financial gain*? Can women vote more unin- 
telligently than the men, who can neither read nor wTite? 
Can she be more than herded in political flocks by a base 
shepherd and lastly, can she do worse than stay away from 
the polls altogether, which is to me the epitome of sloth- 
fulness. 

I believe that this is a great opportunity which the men 
of our nation hold today, not only to right a great wrong 
which our fathers committed when they framed the con- 



118 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

stitution and made no provision for the enfranchisement of 
women, but also to make a great legacy to our sons. This 
legacy, no other than woman's participation in the councils 
of our nation plus woman's conscience, woman's instinct, 
woman's viewpoint, all of which has been sadly lacking to 
us hitherto. 

Let us rise as one man and having made this righteous 

' restitution, let us welcome her to our halls of legislation, 

let us give her what instruction is needed in technicalities 

and then hand in hand, let us gladdened by her perfect 

companionship go on to a brighter, bigger, braver future. 

I thank you for your kind attention. 

MODEL SPEECH FOR ANTI 

May I preface my remarks by stating that I am in no 
sense a woman-hater. Perhaps there is no man within the 
four walls of this Capitol building today who holds woman 
in greater respect and reverence than I. It is with a heavy 
heart for her loss and great gratitude for the inspiration 
she was to me that I recall my sainted mother. For my 
wife and daughters, worthy successors of the wonderful 
women of my family, I feel a love and respect that I am 
unable to fitly clothe in words. But because of this adora- 
tion for women of their kind, and the necessity I feel for 
their tenderest protection from the rough, sordid road of 
life, I am forced to speak out and throw every ounce 
of influence I possess against this desecration of woman's 
prerogative. 

For desecration it would surely be, were woman, lovely 
woman, perfect woman torn from her kingdom — the home, 
and from her throne in the hearts of her husband and sons 
and dragged through the dregs of political corruption. 
She would be in every sense the loser, and in nothing which 
she values, or her loved ones value for her, the gainer. 

Today the women of America are preeminently our 
proudest possession. It is for them we toil long hours in 
the burning sun upon the farms, or between the dingy city 
walls. It is for their protection that we give the greater 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 119 

and better part of our lives to framing the laws of this 
Commonwealth. Like knights of old, we encircle the 
weaker sex with the left arm, while with the right we swing 
the sword in her defense, and shall we permit this con- 
tamination of her purity, this proximity to the polls'? 

It has been truly said that a rose tree is bound to bear 
a rose, but is it for us to crush a rose in the mud until 
its lovely bloom is defaced, its perfume faded? 

From time immemorial, man has been the stronger sex 
and lovely woman has leaned upon his strength. It is not 
true that we have cut her off from the good things of 
life or defrauded her in any sense. We have cherished 
her in the nursery, educated her in the best of schools, 
built her a fitting nest, and wooed and won her for our 
own; and is it strange that having done all this we should 
shrink from seeing her herd with the common politician? 

Were she to ask it at our hands we should indeed be 
hard put to refuse her slightest wish, but does she? No, 
and again no. A small minority of discontents storm the 
halls of government, and clamor, out of proportion to the 
cause they think they represent, but even they know not 
for what they ask. 

Five years ago this state rolled up a great majority 
against this very measure and it was not only the men of 
the state who gave that majority, it was the women ; for 
there is not a person here today who will deny that the 
American man is the willing voice of his wife's wishes. 
How gladly we listen to her counsel, how eagerly we con- 
sult her woman's heart and judgment. This is as it should 
be — not that we exclude her from the affairs of state — we 
could not if we would, but we ask only to be her mouth- 
piece at the council table, her voter at the polls. God 
bless the ladies! 

SECOND MODEL SPEECH FOR SUFFRAGE 

I want to say before I get thoroughly into the stride 
of oratory, for which my esteemed colleagues have set the 
pace, that I have been an anti all my life and so has my 



120 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

wife. In fact, she was president of the organization in our 
town which opposes woman's suffrage just as long as she 
could get a tea quorum out of an afternoon, but of late our 
town has swung the other way and I hope I know my 
duty to my constituents. 

The gentleman who preceded me has said some very nice 
and very touching things about the ladies, all of which I 
heartily second — particularly that about voting as our wives 
wish us to. I always calculate to do that myself and when 
circumstances over which I have no control prevent, I 
rest on the blissful provisions of the Australian Secret 
Ballot. 

Speaking of secret ballots puts me in mind of an idea 

that came to me when the gentleman from 

spoke of dragging the women folks through dregs of po- 
litical corruption. It occurred to me that we might all 
take hold and clean up a bit against the time when the 
women begin to vote. They think down my way that it will 
be soon, and I for one am willing to do my part towards 
putting the political house in order. 

Then there was another thought I had. It is wonderful 
how a bit of eloquence will stir up even an old seasoned 

member like me. When the gentleman from 

was speaking about those lovely women for whom we build 
nests and stand on guard, my mind sort of harked back to a 
lot of nice girls in our town who never had nests prepared 
for them; fine girls, too, who teach and sew and help with 
the housework, support and educate their brothers — who 
do their voting for them — and take care of the old folks 
when the men of the family all go off to the city to live. 
Then there are the women that go back and forth to work 
in the city, not from choice I can tell you, for it is a hard 
life — one I know is a widow and she washes and irons and 
bakes on Sundays to keep her five children in school. She 
pays taxes on her place too, and I don't hear any one offer- 
ing to be her taxpayer, although we are all right willing 
to do her voting and be her voice at the council table. 

There was mention made too, if my memory serves me 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 121 

right, of "women of their kind," meaning the better class. 
Well, I am an old man and never had any daughters — 
more's the pity — but I always have felt pity for the women 
of the other class. Many of them down and out through 
no fault of their own. I remember one they hung up in 

for breaking laws she knew nothing 

of, which men had made for her. I don't recollect any 
man coming around at the right time to be hung for her. 

I used to hear a great many anti-suffrage arguments 
in the old days and that one about the rose crushed in the 
mire is a favorite; that and the bloom brushed from the 
peach. One day a young fellow, a horse trader and a 
crook, that was trying to keep company with one of the girls 
in our neighborhood said to my wife — mind you, I told you 
she was president of the Antis — "What a dreadful thing 
female suffrage would be. What a dreadful revelation it 
would be for a young girl to serve on a jury." 

My wife took off her glasses and looked that young fellow 
up and down and then she said, "Yes, I guess you are 
right, but in that case she wouldn't need to marry a man 
of your type to learn how bad the world is." 

I thought that was a good answer and I want to say that 

I liked mightily what the gentleman from 

said also about the knights of old, encircling the fair one 
with one arm, while with the other he brandished the sword 
in her defense. I could sort of paint the picture in my 
mind's eye. There I stood, strong and fine, supporting a 
leaning female and making pleasant remarks to divert her 
attention, while with the unoccupied hand I surreptitiously 
placed her ballot in the box. 

I want to say for the benefit of the people back home that 
I intend to vote for the ratification of this amendment. 

SECOND MODEL SPEECH FOR ANTI-SUFFRAGE 

It will be as well for me to state at the beginning that 
I have never been, up to the present time, a partisan for 
either suffrage or anti-suffrage. In the referendum of 1913, 



122 STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 

I voted "no" because, having no strong convictions in the 
matter, I felt it would be wiser to abide by conditions as 
they were, rather than to fly to those we knew not of. 

At that time, the district which I represent returned an 
overwhelming majority against woman's suffrage and there 
has been no time in the interim when I have been cognizant 
of a change in the sentiment of the community. For that 
reason and for several others which I shall state later, it 
seems incumbent upon me today to take my stand plainly 
with the opposition. 

Far be it from me to cast, by word or action, the slightest 
aspersion upon that glorious and honored document, the 
Constitution of these United States; but at the same time 
I am a still more loyal advocate of the doctrine of states' 
rights and I can not see and shall never be able to under- 
stand, by what right a law should be forced upon a state — 
a law as thoroughly repugnant to the people of the state 
as this nineteenth amendment will be to the people of the 
South, by the action of three-fourths of the other states. 
either can I see how we can with any backing of right 
whatsoever, vote to ratify this amendment in this common- 
wealth without a second referendum of the people. Five 
years ago they turned it down and we have no authority 
at the present time to reverse that decision. 

I have listened patiently and I hope courteously to the 
advocates of this bill who have kindly presented their case 
to me during the last few weeks, and I shall have to con- 
fess that I am very far from being convinced that this 
move for the political equality of the sexes will do more 
than double the electorate and at the same time double the 
election expenses, which are sufficiently heavy at the pres- 
ent time. Human nature is the same whether clothed in 
pantaloons or petticoats and I believe the balance of power 
will remain exactly as it stands today whether this bill suc- 
ceeds or is defeated. 

It has been affirmed that wherever tried, woman's suf- 
frage has never been discarded. That in itself is a grave 



STORY OF STATE LEGISLATURES 123 

argument against it. We know what a slow and tedious 
task it has proved to amend the constitution even of a 
state. If this thing could be put on and off like a coat 
that would be one thing, but once it is with us it must 
apparently remain, whether we find it feasible or not ; there- 
fore I pray you, fellow members, let us look well before 
we leap. "It is better to be safe than sorry" may be a 
commonplace truism, but it holds a world of wisdom. 

Reports differ greatly as to the success of woman's suf- 
frage in the states where it has been tried. Today we hear 
it extolled — tomorrow execrated, but certain facts cannot be 
denied. California has failed to carry prohibition since she 
enfranchised her women. Illinois was never so politically 
corrupt before, and the West, the stronghold of political 
equality, is also the Mecca for those in quest of divorce. 

In conclusion I shall have to assume the risk of being 
called a reactionary, a mossback, what you will, but I shall 
always affirm, while I have breath, that the work of the world 
has been evenly allotted by an all-wise Providence; trading, 
fighting, voting for the men, but the woman's place is the 
home. 



CHAPTEE VII 
THE STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

In May, 1787, a Convention was called at Philadelphia 
for the sole purpose of revising the then existing Articles 
of Confederation. This Convention contained men who 
possessed intellect above the average; thinkers who 
seemed to look far into the future ; individuals who were 
courageous when the lives and safety of a greater group 
of individuals were at stake. The Convention labored 
for nearly five months, not upon a revision of the Articles 
of Confederation, but instead upon the framing of the 
Constitution of the United States of America. This Con- 
stitution was received with a great deal of hostility by 
the average citizen; but as its ratification was left to 
the political sagacity of the men who made up the Con- 
vention held in each state, it was finally ratified in 1789, 
and became the fundamental law of the new Federation. 
It is second to no other law in the land, and under its 
articles the individual citizen finds protection, and en- 
joys the freedom of religion and speech. 

In 1791 the first ten amendments, known as the Bill 
of Rights, were added to the Constitution according to 
the prescribed procedure for so amending — a two-thirds 
majority vote in Congress and a three-fourths majority 
of the existing states. 

At first the seat of government was established at New 
York and then at Philadelphia. Both these cities, how- 

124 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 125 

ever, proved unsatisfactory, and so in 1800 the govern- 
ment offices were removed to the District of Columbia, a 
plot of land ten miles square granted to the country by 
Maryland and Virginia. It is within this area that the 
city of Washington with its beautiful Capitol and other 
government buildings is situated. 

The government of the United States is divided into 
three branches, similar to the state — executive, legisla- 
tive and judicial. The legislative or law-making powers 
are vested in Congress, which is made up of two houses, — 
a Senate and a House of Representatives. The Senate 
is a body made up of two representatives from each state, 
who are elected for a term of six years. But the framers 
of the Constitution so planned it that the term of office 
of one-third the members should expire every two years, 
thereby leaving an experienced group of lawmakers of 
two-thirds of the total membership always in office. Each 
senator must be at least thirty years of age ; a resident of 
the state which he represents at the time of election and 
must have been a citizen of the United States for nine 
years. The Senate has the power of ratifying all treaties 
made by the President before they become effective. The 
Constitution provides that all appointments by the 
President are subject to confirmation by the Senate. 
Bills originating in the House of Representatives must 
also pass the Senate. Although the Senate may not in- 
troduce bills controlling the raising of revenue to carry 
on the work of the government, nevertheless it may 
amend such bills as they are presented to it from the 
other house. The Senate has the responsibility of trying 
all impeachment cases. It also chooses the Vice President 
of the United States in case no candidate secures enough 



126 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

votes in the general election to guarantee an election 
to office. The Senate is presided over by the Vice- 
President and makes its own rnles of procedure. It 
is divided into standing committees, and it is by these 
committees that most of the legislation of the Senate 
is carried on. As many hundreds of bills are introduced 
at each session it is natural that most of them never find 
their way back from committee, because it would be 
practically impossible for the Senate or House to handle 
them in the short time of their session. In the absence 
of the vice-president, a president pro tempore is elected 
from among the members, or if the office of vice-president 
becomes vacant, the president pro tempore becomes the 
permanent chairman of the Senate. 

The House of Representatives has a much larger mem- 
bership than the Senate, each state sending a certain 
number in proportion to its population. After each 
census has been determined, Congress passes a law de- 
ciding the number of representatives each state shall 
have during the next ten years ; and the state legislature 
then divides the state into districts, from each of which 
the voters elect one representative to Congress. 
"Any one who has attained the age of twenty-five years 
and has been a citizen of the United States for seven 
years is eligible for election to the House of Representa- 
tives, provided he is a resident of the state from which 
he is elected. Two years is the length of the term of 
office held by a representative. 

The House shares about equally with the Senate the 
powers of lawmaking, but as the Senate has two matters, 
mentioned above, in which it acts alone, so has the House 
a few special constitutionally granted privileges. It 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 127 

brings formal charges against a federal officer in impeach- 
ment cases if it feels that the accused is guilty of an 
offense which warrants a removal from office; the Senate 
tries the case. The House chooses the President if no 
candidate for that office receives a majority of electoral 
votes in the general election. Bills for the raising of 
revenue originate in the House, but may be amended 
by the Senate. 

The presiding officer of the House is called the Speaker 
and he is one of the most powerful of all public officials. 
Although he does not belong of necessity to the party in 
power, he is usually a very keen politician and one who 
had held up the traditions of his party. The committees 
of the House (as in the Senate these are most import- 
ant), are appointed by the Speaker. Because of the size 
of the House as compared with the Senate, it cannot take 
the time to listen at length to debates and discussion of 
many bills, so the work of the committees becomes even 
more minute and detailed than in the Senate. 

The Speaker must recognize an individual who wishes 
to address the chair and the House before he may speak, 
so that it is evident that the presiding officer has many 
opportunities to defeat a displeasing bill, introduced by 
the opposing party or even by a member of his own party, 
by simply refusing to recognize those who announce 
themselves as proponents of such a bill. 

A Congress, during its two years, has two sessions, 
one known as the short, and the other as the long session. 
The latter begins on the first Monday of December of 
the odd years and lasts until the buiness is finished or 
until the two houses decide to adjourn. The short ses- 
sion begins on the first Monday of December of the even 



128 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

years and ends at noon on the following fourth of March. 
Both houses make their own rules of order, and each 
decides whether or not any individual is eligible to mem- 
bership if a question would arise as to his qualifications 
or personal character. A majority of members makes 
up a quorum in each house, and no business may be 
conducted unless there is a quorum present. Besides 
the already mentioned officers in the House and the Sen- 
ate, each also has a sergeant-at-arms, a doorkeeper, a 
postmaster, and a chaplain. The Senate has a secretary, 
the House a clerk. 

An act, to become a law, must pass both houses and 
then be signed by the President. The President, how- 
ever, may veto it, and then the act must receive a two- 
thirds vote in each house, if it is reconsidered, before it 
may become a law. If a bill passes both houses and then 
is not acted upon by the President, it automatically 
becomes a law. If the House of Representatives origi- 
nates and passes a bill and on its introduction to the 
Senate the latter body amends it, the act must return to 
the House and be accepted in its new form before it 
can be forwarded to the President. 

The judicial branch of the United States Government, 
is most powerful in its jurisdiction. This branch con- 
sists of a Supreme Court, Circuit Courts of Appeals, 
District Courts and a few courts which have been created 
by Congress by the power granted to it by the Constitu- 
tion. These latter courts include a Court of Claims and 
a Court of Customs Appeals. 

The judges of all Federal courts are appointed by 
the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate; 
they may hold office for life, or during good behaviour. 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 129 

They can be removed from office only by conviction on 
impeachment charges. The salary of the eight associate 
justices of the Supreme Court is $14,500, while the Chief 
Justice receives $500 more. Circuit judges receive 
$7,000 and district judges $6,000. A judge may retire 
at the age of seventy, if he wishes, on condition that he 
has already served ten years, and he receives the full 
amount of his salary. 

The country is divided into Federal districts, each 
state having at least one district and some as many as 
four. In each district there is a district court, with at 
least one judge to each court, also a district attorney 
who, with his assistants, is responsible for the prosecu- 
tion of all offenders against the national laws. A mar- 
shall is also appointed in each district to arrest such 
persons as necessity and the orders of the court direct. 
United States commissioners also pay a prominent part 
in each district, in that they hear the cases of persons 
who have been accused of a crime against the govern- 
ment, and if they find probable cause to hold the individ- 
uals the latter are passed on to the Grand Jury. These 
district courts have only original jurisdiction, that is, 
they hear only cases which have not been heard before 
any other court. Cases in these courts are tried before 
a jury, and every kind of case whether criminal or a 
suit in law, is heard before the District Court with the 
exception of those in which the Supreme Court has 
original jurisdiction, namely "in all cases affecting am- 
bassadors, other public ministers and consuls, and those 
in which a state shall be a party;" in all other cases 
the Supreme Court has only appellate jurisdiction. 

The Circuit Courts of Appeals receive the appeals of 



130 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

persons who are dissatisfied with the findings of a judge 
or jury in the District Court. The country is divided 
into nine circuits with at least three states to a circuit, 
and from two to five judges are appointed to each cir- 
cuit. The findings of these courts are generally final, 
unless the case involves a question of constitutionality, 
or if some point of law arises which requires an inter- 
pretation by the Supreme Court. This Court of Appeals 
has no jury. 

The Supreme Court is without doubt the highest trib- 
unal of justice in the world, and like the Circuit Courts 
of Appeals, it has no jury. It sits at the national capitol 
annually, the sessions beginning on the second Monday 
in October, It hears witnesses only in very extreme 
cases, and the evidence is presented to the Court. Six 
members constitute a quorum, and a majority of the 
justices must accept the decision of the one justice ap- 
pointed by the chief justice to write the decision of the 
Court. 

The executive power, according to the Constitution, is 
vested in the President. It is improbable that the 
framers of the Constitution meant that the President 
should control and exercise all the executive powers 
which necessarily arise in the conduct of such a big 
business as the government of this country. Therefore, 
although the Constitution does not provide for special 
departments to assist the President in the carrying out 
of the executive duties, nevertheless it takes such a step 
for granted, and these departments, of which there are 
ten, are created by statute rather than by the explicit 
law of the Constitution. The Vice-President plays a 
very minor part in the machinery of the government un- 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 131 

less, by chance, he should succeed to the Presidency 
through the death or removal from office of the Chief 
Executive. 

To be eligible for the office of President, a person must 
be a natural born citizen of the United States, at least 
thirty-five years of age, and have resided fourteen years 
within the United States. He is elected on the first 
Tuesday following the first Monday of November in the 
year immediately preceding the expiration of the term of 
office of the present incumbent. The President takes 
oath of office on the fourth of March following his elec- 
tion, and the oath is administered by the Chief Justice 
of the Supreme Court. 

It is the duty of the President to see that the laws of 
tirs United States are faithfully executed. He can ac- 
complish a great deal toward government efficiency if he 
takes great care to appoint persons to office who are cap- 
able, conscientious and virtuously courageous in making 
decisions which indirectly work toward the happiness 
of the millions of citizens of the whole country. It is 
a pity that the people at large are not able fully to 
appreciate the appointments made by a President, be- 
cause the opposing political party is ever ready to pre- 
sent through its press the deficiencies of the persons ap- 
pointed rather than their qualifications. 

The President is commander-in-chief of the army and 
navy of the United States and of the militia of the states 
if called into the service of the country. He appoints 
ambassadors, consuls, other public ministers, judges of 
the United States Courts, chief military, naval and de- 
partmental officials, all of whom must be confirmed by 
the Senate. He can remove officers of the army and 



132 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

navy, and he has the power to commission them to office. 
He may make treaties with other countries, but the 
treaties must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the 
Senate. 

The President may receive or not persons who are 
representatives from foreign countries. He must act 
within a limit of ten days upon all bills or acts which are 
passed by Congress. He has the power of veto, and 
Congress can pass an act over his veto only by a two- 
thirds vote of both houses. It is this constitutional 
privilege which makes the President a powerful factor 
in the formation of laws. 

At the beginning of each Congress the President sends 
or appears in person and reads a message in which he 
recommends certain legislation for Congress to act on. 
He may also send messages at any time he thinks feasible, 
in order to give Congress some important information 
in regard to the country which had not been promulgated 
by means of the press. 

He may call a special session of Congress if he thinks 
that the conditions in the country demand it. He has 
the power of adjourning Congress if those two bodies 
cannot reach an agreement upon a certain time for ad- 
journment. He may reprieve or pardon a person con- 
victed of crime, and he has also the power of commuta- 
tion of sentence. 

The Cabinet of the President contains the heads of the 
ten executive departments. These individuals control 
thousands of inferior officials and employees, so it is 
evident that a great deal of responsibility rests upon the 
shoulders of each Secretary. It has been the custom for 
the President to conduct Cabinet meetings at least once 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 133 

a week, when the opinions of the individual Secretaries 
are voiced on subjects which have to do with the policy 
of the Administration. However, although the President 
may listen to the opinions of the Cabinet he is no way 
bound to follow them. 

The members of the Cabinet are usually persons of 
the same political party as the President and are ap- 
pointed by him; they may remain in office as long as 
their methods and policies are pleasing to him, although 
they are subject to the impeachment power of Congress. 
If the offices of President and Vice-President should be- 
come vacant at the same time the Secretary of State 
would be the next to succeed and if it happened that 
that individual could not move into the Presidency, the 
next in line would be the Secretary of the Treasury, 
and the others follow in order as Secretary of War, At- 
torney General, Postmaster General, Navy, Interior, 
Agriculture, Commerce and Labor. 

The State Department looks after the relations with 
foreign countries, and it is very urgent that the Secre- 
tary of this department be a person who has been bred 
in the school of diplomacy, because upon' the Secretary of 
State hinges in a great way the peace of this country. 
This department also has charge of the original laws 
and treaties, and it keeps the Seal of the United States, 
which must appear on all the President's proclamations. 

The Treasury Department controls the finances of the 
government, collects all public revenues and sees that 
such revenues are safely kept and disbursed according 
to the appropriations which are made by Congress. 

The War Department controls the military strength 
of the country, and it is very important that this depart- 



134 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

ment, as well as that of the navy which has charge of the 
naval strength, be very efficient and up to date, as was 
proven in 1917 when the United States was precipitated 
into the blackest of human warfares across the seas. 

The Department of Justice, under the supervision of 
the Attorney General, is the source of all legal advice for 
all officers of the government. 

The Post Office Department conducts a great business 
for the United States, and, under a Postmaster General, 
directs the carrying and delivery of letters and packages 
to the very doors of nearly every home in the country. 

The Secretary of the Interior is charged with the su- 
pervision of education, Indian affairs, public lands and 
surveys, pensions, patents, national parks and a great 
many other matters which are not conducted through 
any other departments. There are many bureaus which 
carry on the various individual businesses as enumerated 
above. 

The Secretary of Agriculture is responsible through 
his department for the development of all activities 
which will better the agricultural interests of the country. 

The Department of Commerce, under a Secretary, 
attends to the interests of foreign and domestic com- 
merce such as mining, manufacturing, fishing and the 
like. Also this department contains the Census Bureau 
which collects and tabulates every ten years a complete 
census of the population of the United States. 

The Department of Labor, supervised by a Secretary, 
collects all material of interest concerning conditions 
in the labor world. The Bureau of Naturalization and 
Immigration look after the thousands of foreigners who 
come into this country every year. 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 135 

There are many other bureaus and commissions which 
could be mentioned, but which lack of space prohibits. 
The few generally stated paragraphs above will give to 
the student an idea of the huge business over which 
the President of the United States must preside as gen- 
eral manager. His department managers, as we may call 
the Cabinet members, receive $12,000 a year, while the 
President himself gets only $75,000 as personal salary 
for doing such a huge job with such huge responsi- 
bilities. He, of course, receives extra renumeration for 
the expenses of the White House, and also for his trav- 
elling expenses, if they do not exceed $25,000. 



TWO SCENES FROM THE NATURALIZATION 
COURT 

The Story Entitled: 

How Antonio Salvini Became an American Citizen. 

I could hardly wait for my eighteenth birthday, be- 
cause I had been promised by my father that I should 
receive on that day the money that would carry me to 
America. I had, living in America, an uncle who was 
both rich and great, by which I mean that he owned a 
large fruit market in Lynn, Mass., and being a promi- 
nent man in his neighborhood was frequently called into 
the political councils of his ward. He not only spoke 
English, he wrote it. 

On my arrival in Boston he, accompanied by two of 
my cousins met me, and carried me in his own flivver 
car through the great roaring discomposure of the city 
streets to his home in Lynn. On that very first day 
he began to teach me the English by making me say over 
and over again these words: — "I arrived in Boston on 
the steamship Allegantic from Naples, July 8th, 1914." 
This, he explained to me was a very important fact to 
remember, as it would be asked me whenever I wished 
to become an American citizen. To become an American 
citizen was counted a great and glorious attainment by 
the members of my uncle's family, With whom I now 
lived, sharing in the work, attending his thriving fruit 
business. Later I was to learn that many of my com- 

136 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 137 

patriots did not so consider it, but in my fancy, at that 
time, it was a golden goal. 

Early in September my uncle took me to the Court 
House in Salem to make application for my first papers. 
For some time previous to this no one in my uncle 's house 
would speak to me in Italian, so determined were they 
that I should gain speedily a knowledge of the English 
language. But I recall that on the day we were going 
together to the Court House, which was at a great dis- 
tance from our home, he instructed me, using Italian 
about many things. It was so good to hear the mother 
tongue once more that I shall never forget the things 
he told me. They were these : — First, that I must bear 
myself with great honesty, as no person who had been 
in the jails would be accepted. Second, that I must 
never listen to the wild talk of agitators because people 
who disbelieved in government, called anarchists, would 
be' thrown out. Third, that although black people as 
well as white might become citizens, the yellow man was 
not eligible. Fourth, that five years at least must elapse 
before I could obtain my second and final papers, there- 
fore it was well for me to make application at once. 
Then he told me the sad story of a man who made the 
attempt to marry many wives. He is called by a long 
name — polygamist — and he may not be a citizen. 

At the Court House I seemed to be very unimportant, 
after I had repeated the words, "I want 'Facts for 
Declaration of Intentions.' ' The clerk and my uncle 
chatted gaily like old friends for a minute, and then a 
paper was thrust into my hands and we were motioned 
along, and presently were in the street again. I was 
bitterly disappointed that so little attention had been 



138 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

paid me, and that the great first event had consumed 
so little time. 

On returning home the entire family. took a hand in 
filling in the blank spaces on my paper and explaining 
to me the meaning of each. As I remember it, I had to 
give all my names, my age, occupation, my color — that 
is, black or white — and my complexion besides. I found 
this puzzling as the color of my hair and eyes had to 
be set down also My height and weight must be as- 
certained and even the loss of my left ear, which was 
torn off when a child, was of interest to them. We set 
down my birthplace and the Province in which it was 
situated; the month, day and year of my birthday; the 
last village in which I had lived in Italy ; the street and 
number and city of my present residence; the name of 
the port from which I had sailed, and at last the name of 
the ship and the date of arrival which I had so carefully 
memorized. The last thing of all was to say that I would 
renounce my allegiance to Italy and Victor Emmanuel. 
This, after it had been explained to me, I was half a 
mind not to do. I could see no reason why, loving my 
mother, I could not love another too, but it seemed that 
I must choose between them. My decision was not with- 
out sorrow. 

So soon as my uncle could again spare the time we 
made our second trip to the Court House in Salem, and 
on this day, we made a longer stop. I gave the clerk 
one dollar of my own money and in exchange he gave 
me a fresh paper called "Declaration of Intention" on 
which was copied all the statements made on my other 
one. But before doing this I was made to hold up my 
right hand and swear that I had told the truth about 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 139 

everything thereon; and I also signed my name three 
times on various papers in the presence of the clerk. On 
that day there was but one ''fly in my oil" as the Amer- 
icans say. On the paper was a question about my wife 
and where she was born. Now at this time I was not 
married but' was promised to a girl at home and it 
seemed only right that some mention should be made of 
this fact ; but both my uncle and cousins had disregarded 
it, and when I tried to make explanations to the clerk — 
he also seemed unconcerned on the subject. 

That evening my uncle insisted upon taking the paper 
for which I had paid and for the possession of which 
I had been at such great pains and locking it in his safe. 
He, however, kindly explained to me in Italian that 
although it could be replaced it would be at great in- 
convenience to him and that it was absolutely necessary 
to present this paper when making application for my 
naturalization certificate. Then he taught me to say in 
English: ''This paper is good for seven years." 

I have noticed that as one, in walking, approaches a 
steep hill, it appears at a little distance to be very nearly 
perpendicular, but when at last one is finally mounting 
this same hill a great leveling seems to have taken place. 
This illustrates my experience in the next five years of 
my life. Looking ahead I felt that five years was an 
eternity and that the speaking and writing of English 
was a task that only a super-man should attempt; but 
after my first winter at evening school its accomplish- 
ment seemed the ordinary task for the ordinary man. 
The reading of the English was my pride. To purchase 
a newspaper upon the street corner and with it in my 
hand board a trolley car, take my seat and unfold the 



140 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

paper for its perusal, was my favorite pastime. Often 
would I peep surreptitiously over its top to see if I had 
been observed, and even before I could translate more 
than a few words I would pretend to read it all. 

A great happiness came to me when I found that the 
public libraries and reading rooms were open to me in 
every sense of the word. Much I shall always love some 
of the American poets. The verses of those I loved best 
do not sing as in the Italian, but they laugh. 

The study of government and the perusal of the long 
pages of the Constitution, which was necessary as a 
preparation for my citizenship, was not a joyous task 
to me. Often I would promise myself a little music 
or a little visit at the pictures as a reward for time 
spent in this way. It was only when a new teacher 
painted for our class the picture of the beginnings of 
this great country and the beautiful spirit of brotherli- 
ness which underlies it all, that I began to make satis- 
factory progress in the subject called " civil govern- 
ment.' 7 It was then that my heart warmed with alle- 
giance to my new flag and I determined to prove my- 
self, when the time should come, to be an esteemed citi- 
zen. 

As the day approached when I could at last say that 
I had resided in this country five years, my wife kept me 
constantly reminded that I must make application for 
my second papers. You must know that the little woman 
who had come out from Italy to marry me, had quickly 
put on the American customs and now wished to be an 
American citizen herself. This she could only accom- 
plish through my naturalization. 

It was in September, 1919, that, taking my first papers 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 141 

from my safe — I had a safe of my own now — my wife 
and I made a visit to the clerk's office in the Essex 
County Court House, the same office that I had visited 
five years before with my uncle. It was not necessary, 
so I was told, to go again to the same court. Many of 
my friends had obtained their papers from the Federal 
Building in Boston, but as a matter of sentiment I chose 
to take my wife to the building I so well remembered. 
She in turn made me repeat to her my feelings and 
impressions on my first visit. Here I exhibited my 
''Declaration of Intention" to the clerk and made re- 
quest for the second papers. We were given a document 
of four pages which we took home to study and fill out 
at our leisure. The first page was a " Request for Cer- 
tificate of Arrival." The three other pages called for 
a repetition of many of the statements on my first paper 
with the addition of others, such as the facts that were 
embodied on my inspection card and passport; at what 
court I took out my first papers ; whether I could speak 
the English; and the names of my wife and children. 
All this we carefully filled out and having done so we 
mailed this large new document with the number of my 
old one, to the Commissioner of Naturalization, Depart- 
ment of Labor in Washington, D. C. 

Before these papers were sent away we spent some 
time in selecting my two witnesses. My cousin who had 
automatically become a citizen on his twenty-first birth- 
day through the naturalization of his father had con- 
sented to stand for me. My second witness was a rela- 
tive of my wife's who though a resident of Boston for 
twenty years he had taken out his last papers only the 
previous year. In talking with my wife's relative we 



142 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

learned that because he had come to this country pre- 
vious to 1906, when a new law on naturalization went 
into effect, it had not been necessary for him to obtain 
a ' ' Certificate of Arrival. ' ' Aside from this one detail, 
however, he had been obliged, in order to gain his Cer- 
tificate of Naturalization, to go through the same pre- 
liminaries that were required of me. This Certificate he 
must bring with him as a proof of his citizenship when 
he should be called on to vouch for me. 

At last my post card from the Bureau at Washington 
arrived summoning me to make my appearance, with 
my two witnesses, at the Court House. Previous to my 
starting my wife had suggested that this was my oppor- 
tunity to change my name if I so desired. She suggested 
Anthony Salvin as having an American sound — this sur- 
name she had found in the telephone directory — but in 
this I could not humor her. It savored too much of 
taking what was not mine. I did follow her advice in 
many matters pertaining to my naturalization, for she 
had made it her business to gather from her friends and 
neighbors much information on the subject. I must re- 
move my hat when taking oath ; on the final day, I must 
rise when the judge entered ; look clean and well dressed 
as possible, and above everything be punctual to the 
day and hour set. 

On our first day at the Court House my witnesses, 
under oath, vouched for my good reputation for five 
years in this country and also for the truth of the state- 
ment on my petition for Naturalization. I paid the 
clerk four dollars and it is true that it seemed to me at 
this time no larger sum than the one dollar I had paid 
five years ago. I signed my name to this second paper, 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 143 

and then my witnesses signed it too, but it was retained 
by the clerk and would be, so they informed me, avail- 
able to the public for ninety days, so that any one who 
so desired might make objections to me. During the 
three months that intervened before my next summons 
to court, I tried to think of any enemies I might have 
who would wish to offend me in this way. I could think 
of no one but a distant cousin who had been my rival for 
my wife's hand, and he had never come to this country 
as far as I could ascertain. 

When the ninety days had at length spent themselves, 
both my witnesses and I received notices to go before 
the United States Naturalization Examiner and the 
Judge in Court. First, my witnesses gave proof of my 
residence, then, of my moral character and, finally, of 
my belief in the principles of the Constitution of the 
United States. After this they were dismissed and my 
great gratitude went with them because I had heard not 
a few stories of the embarrassment caused by the non- 
appearance of witnesses. It is true that if a witness wil- 
fully refuses to appear he may be subpoenaed by the 
court, but such an happening always reflects rather 
badly on the candidate for admission. 

My examination, which followed, proved not difficult 
at all. The questions were mostly on civil government 
and kindred topics, in which I had been much interested 
since coming to America. 

Next the judge talked to us in beautiful words about 
our duties and privileges as citizens, and then we — there 
were many other applicants appearing at the same time 
— together took the oath of allegiance. 

There is little more to be told except that, as I turned 



144 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

about to leave the court room on my way to the clerk's 
office to sign my certificate, who should come forward but 
my wife, wearing a beautiful American hat with a white 
plume and, she kissed me on both cheeks before them 
all. I saw sly smiles and winks from my fellow country- 
men — how fine that sounds — but I believe that each of 
them envied me this attention. 



Persons — First Scene 

Deputy Clerk 

Clerk's Assistant 

Typist 

Four Witnesses 



Second Scene • 

Judge 
Clerk 
Examiner 
Examiner's Clerk 
Two Deputy Marshals 
Seven or more Applicants 
Two witnesses for each appli- 
cant 



Books 



Tables 



Properties 

1 small 
1 desk size 
1 very long and nar- 
row 



Typewriter 

Chairs 

Mock papers i 

Seven Briefs 

Signs and Badges 

Same Tables 
Same Chairs 
Three Settees 
Clerk's Book 
Judge's Robe 
Briefs and Badges 



INSTRUCTIONS 

In previous chapters the authors have recommended 
that the story preceding the demonstration, be given 
in the pupil's own words. In this chapter, on the 
contrary, we strongly advise that it be read by the 
pupil best fitted by voice and articulation, to do so. 
"We have endeavored to tell the story with the precision 

i Samples of these papers (demonstrated later on in the In- 
structions) may be obtained at any Naturalization Office if ex- 
planation is made that their use is for educational purposes. 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 145 

and naivete of the earnest, intelligent Italian, putting 
it into the first person to add interest to the perform- 
ance. 

From the reading of the entire chapter, it will be 
seen immediately that the naturalization proceedings 
sketched in the story do not tally exactly with those 
outlined for demonstration. The reason for this is that 
the story follows the naturalization progress of the 
Superior or County Court, while the demonstration en- 
deavors to rehearse the course of action as it is found 
in the much busier Federal Courts. It is essential that 
the Leader make this explanation at the beginning of 
the performance, adding, if the demonstration is given 
before the foreign born, an explanation as to where 
each variety of court may be found in that vicinity. 

The two scenes necessary to present this subject of 
naturalization properly will demand two groups of par- 
ticipants, although if the class is very small, some of 
the pupils may take double roles. 

For the first scene, the stage should be arranged like 
the interior of an office. There should be big books 
(like ledgers) in cases, or lying on the long counter- 
like table in the foreground (see diagram). Behind 
this counter stands the clerk who is empowered to ad- 
minister oaths. His assistant, dividing his time be- 
tween his own desk, the typewriter desk and the coun- 
ter, carries papers, gives information and generally 
assists his superior. The typist keeps up an intermit- 
tent clatter on her instrument as she pretends to fill 
in papers for the applicants. 

The two clerks should inform themselves concerning 
the entire process of gaining naturalization. If it is 



146 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

not possible for them to visit a naturalization office, 
the Leader will find it necessary to instruct and re- 
hearse them in their parts. 

The applicants should each be furnished with a brief, 
and duplicates of the briefs should be in the hands of 
the clerks at the counter. The applicants' witnesses, 
required in the first scene, will need little or no coach- 
ing as they will simply follow the directions of the 
clerks. The Leader should, however emphasize their 
duties and qualifications in his explanations. 

A very important part of naturalization — undoubt- 
edly the part upon which most stress is laid by the 
applicant — is the examination. Now, as in reality the 
examination is entirely of a confidential nature, and the 
authorities are most punctilious in abiding by that regu- 
lation, we have felt that we might be indirectly encour- 
aging a misunderstanding, especially in the minds of 
the alien, if we attempted to give an exhibition examina- 
tion; therefore, we have been careful to leave that part 
of the performance to the imagination of the audience. 
When sent to the Examiner's office by the clerk the 
petitioner merely goes into the ante-room and waits his 
turn to reappear. When leaving the scene he should 
be provided by the clerk with the number of his Declara- 
tion, and with a card, supposedly his O. K. from the 
Examiner, when returning to it. The Leader, however, 
should be at no little pains to give all data concerning 
the examinations not only' of the petitioner, but also 
of his witnesses. (See model Examinations and accom- 
panying note.) 

Papers to simulate "Facts for Declaration of Inten- 
tions," ''Declaration of Intentions," "Facts for Peti- 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 147 

tion for Naturalization' 7 and " Requests for Certificate 
of Arrival" should be provided. As these documents 
are so long and complicated it is not obligatory that 
they be copied and mimeographed. Rather let a pupil 
who is clever with brush and pen prepare a few mock 
copies of each, making the headings black enough to be 
perfectly visible to the audience, while the smaller type 
may be but a scrawl. The other mock papers called for 
in the demonstration such as the Examiner's 0. K. may 
be imitated in the same way. 

A sign bearing the word NATURALIZATION in large 
letters and a smaller one with the inscription "Please 
keep in Line" may be displayed or not; but badges for 
the participants will add much to the clearness of the 
lesson to be presented. These badges may be made of 
ordinary white wrapping paper, cut in strips five inches 
wide and forty inches long, with the name Deputy Mar- 
shal, Clerk, etc., printed on them in ink with a small 
brush. They should pass over one shoulder and be 
pinned in the back so that the name inscribed thereon 
will be plainly visible on the breast of each pupil wear- 
ing one. 

For the second scene, the same chairs and tables may 
simply be shifted about to form a court room. Three 
settees should be in readiness to be placed in the positions 
indicated in Diagram "B" and the typewriter set aside. 
A platform that would elevate the Judge and clerk 
would be realistic, but not necessary. The same books 
and papers will serve the second time, but different 
briefs and other badges will be needed. 

The judge, dressed in a black university gown, should 
bear himself with great dignity and kindliness. This 



148 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

part, unlike the judge's role in a former demonstration, 
is most important, because his charge to the appli- 
cants (model page X) is the feature of this second 
scene. 

The clerk calls the names of the applicants and ad- 
ministers the oath. In doing this he should rise and re- 
peat any little mannerisms, which he may choose to 
affect to draw attention to his part. To refresh his 
memory he may have a copy of the oath (see demonstra- 
tion) concealed in the big book in which he appears to 
write, and a list of the names of the petitioners in this 
scene. 

The part of the examiner should be taken by some one 
with a good deal of initiative. He should be kindly, but 
quizzical — looking over his glasses sharply at the peti- 
tioner. He stands facing the Judge with his clerk be- 
side him, seated at the lower table (see diagram) and as 
each fresh group (comprising petitioner and two wit- 
nesses) appears he questions them. The questions are 
taken from the slips of paper, called statements, which 
his clerk hands him one at a time. These slips for this 
mock court are really copies of the briefs. Each in- 
dividual court examination finished, the Examiner passes 
the statements back to the clerk, who appears to be 
very busy checking them off. It should be the Ex- 
aminer's clerk's duty to see that each brief passed to 
his superior fits the incoming petitioner. 

The Deputy Marshals are important and most active 
in this scene. One stands at the door and acts as an 
usher and crier, calling out the names of the applicants 
after they have been read by the clerk. The other stands 
near the judge, giving instructions to petitioners and 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 149 

witnesses; where to stand, what to do and where to go 
after the first formalities are over. 

The applicants are not the same ones who appear in 
the first scene. Their briefs are quite dissimilar; al- 
though one who has successfully passed his examination 
in the former scene, may, in this one, take the oath of 
allegiance. 

The real names and addresses of the pupils taking 
the parts of witnesses, may be used to save work for the 
Leader. The witnesses must be instructed in the num- 
ber of years they are supposed to have known their 
principal to have lived in the state. 1 Questions put 
them concerning the petitioner's character should always 
be answered favorably. The two witnesses should agree 
in their statements. 

Diagram A. 

Q T ypist I | 

I I O Clerk 

O Deputy Clerk 



Applicants Enter— >. Leave ■ > 

DEMONSTRATION 

The stage, or front of the classroom, should be set in 
accordance with diagram A, before the audience or class 
arrives. 

After the story has been read, the Leader should take 
the opportunity to make the introductory explanations 

i As one year's residence in the state and five years continu- 
ously in the country is the requirement, by law, this time or 
longer should be given except in the one case where a deposition is 
introduced. 



150 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

that are necessary. Then as the performance prog- 
resses, let him make short interruptions at the proper 
places for the purpose of elucidating what has gone 
before and supplying the facts that the demonstration 
fails to emphasize. It would be most unwise to attempt 
this performance without a leader who has made himself 
thoroughly conversant with the whole subject of natu- 
ralization. 

When the deputy clerk, his assistant, and typist have 
taken their places, the applicants should begin to appear. 
Coming one at a time — they should move to the counter, 
making a real effort to put themselves in the places of 
the foreigners they are impersonating. 

(For convenience we designate them by the numbers 
on their briefs.) 

The part of the first declarant x is very simple. The 
Leader must use his own judgment in allowing an imi- 
tation of the dialect. 

The part of the second declarant calls for a wait while 
his first papers are being typed. He should simply 
stand aside until called again by the clerk after Number 
Three has been disposed of. 

Number Three is a straight case, and the brief con- 
tains all necessary directions. 

Between his two appearances Number Four has a 
wait of a few minutes. The second time he comes in, 
after Number Five is dismissed, he carries on an ex- 
tended dialogue with the clerk which must be loud and 
distinct because it embodies many facts that should be 
imparted to the audience or class. 

i The applicants are nailed Declarants when getting their first 
paper — Petitioners when petitioning for their second. 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 151 

The fifth petitioner's part may be made little or 
much of, according to the histrionic ability of the pupil, 
and requires no explanation except from the Leader. 

Number Six is a soldier and the Leader should point 
out the special dispensations for such cases. 

The last petitioner in this scene, coming in after he 
has qualified at the Examiner's, demonstrates the final 
office formalities. As this is the one place in the dem- 
onstration where this part is given, it will be well for 
the Leader to rehearse each step that Number Seven has 
taken, adding, if there is time, all that must have come 
before this stage in the naturalization proceedings. 
Repetition should not be avoided. To the uninitiated 
this whole subject appears complex. 

A little homily on the necessity of organized govern- 
ment, which means law and order, would be apropos 
at this stage in the performance. This may be given 
by the Leader or by a pupil who has previously pre- 
pared a paper on the subject. 

Meanwhile the stage is quietly being re-arranged by 
other pupils (who have been instructed previously) in 
accordance with Diagram B. 



Diagram B. 



^ Deputy 
O Marshall 



Jud 8 e 



01 




1 1 




Qigf 


O Clerk 










o 


Examiner 






O Examiner's Clerk 




Benches 



Deputy Marshall 
Q or Crier 



152 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

The Examiner, the clerk chosen for this scene, the 
examiner's clerk, and the Deputy Marshal who acts as 
the Court Crier now take their places, followed by the 
petitioners and witnesses who occupy the benches in 
front until they are called. 

At this point an impressive pause should occur in the 
performance that the opening of the door, through which 
the Judge appears, may be dramatic. This is easily 
accomplished by the Leader who, by remaining in silent 
and strained attention for sixty seconds with his eyes 
fixed on the door in question, will not only arrest the 
audience but signal the waiting participants in the ante- 
room. Simultaneously with the opening of the door 
appears the second Deputy Marshal who cries in a loud 
voice, "The Honorable, the District Court of the United 
States! Let all stand/' As the audience and partici- 
pants alike obey this order, the Judge appears in his 
black robe and takes his place. Immediately, the clerk 
raising his voice demands, "Mr. Crier, open the Court." 
The first Deputy Marshal answering, repeats the fol- 
lowing — "All persons that have anything to do before 
the Honorable, the Judge of the District Court of the 
United States, now holden at Boston within and for the 
district of Massachusetts, may now draw near, give their 
attendance, and they shall be heard. God save the 
United States of America and this Honorable Court." 

When all are seated, the clerk reads the laame of the 
first petititioner on the list and the Crier repeats it 
loudly. Rising and moving forward, followed by his 
two witnesses Number Eight is motioned into his place 
at the left of the Judge, by the second Deputy Marshal, 
who says — "Raise your right hand." Meanwhile, the 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 153 

clerk, rising and facing the petitioner, administers the 
oath, in these words: 

"Will you solemnly swear that you will make true 
answer to the questions asked by the Court by order 
of the Court, relative to the matters now pending — 
So help me God." 

The petitioner answers, "I do." 

Nov/ follow the questions from the Examiner. Read- 
ing from his mock statements let him put the questions 
in a way to prompt the petitioner. For instance : 

"Your name is Donald McLeod? 

"You were born in Nova Scotia? 

"You are a golf club maker? 

"You are now employed at ? 

"Mr. McLeod, have you your honorable discharge from 
the navy?" 

Where rehearsals of the performance are possible this 
method of questioning will not be essential and the Ex- 
aminer may allow himself some variations to relieve the 
monotony. 

Next, the witnesses are each asked the following ques- 
tions : 

"What is your name? Where do you live? How 

long have you known to have lived in ? 

or, Do you know to have been in the navy ? Have 

you seen him in uniform ? Do you know him to be 
of good character?" 

Now the Examiner, after an impressive pause, while 
his eyes consult the paper in his hand, says, "He is 
qualified, your Honor." 

The Examiner gives the statement back to his clerk, 
the Deputy Marshal dismisses the witnesses in these 



154 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

words, as he glances toward the Judge, "The witnesses 
are all through?" To which the Judge nods. He then 
seats the petitioner on' the settee at the left and the 
witnesses take seats in the audience. 

Let the Leader explain at this place that the Examiner, 
having previously given each petitioner a confidential 
examination now vouches for the men to the Court, 
when he says: "He is qualified." 

Each case that follows contains some variations of 
detail, but the Examiner can readily accomodate his 
questions to the briefs. Number Eight and Number 
Nine were both in the service, and by a custom of the 
Court come first. The Examiner uses the sterotyped — 
"They are qualified, your Honor," in closing both. 
That Number Ten is a slacker is brought out in the ques- 
tions and in this case the Judge says, in a very stern 
voice, "Because you refused to serve this country and 
thereby repudiated your Declaration of Intention, 
United States citizenship is denied you." At which the 
disgraced petitioner leaves the Court. 

Number Eleven is supended temporarily until he has 
petitioned the government at Washington and has been 
taken from the Alien Enemy class. He exhibits Liberty 
Bonds as a proof of loyalty to U. S. A. In the case 
of Number Twelve, who has been convicted and has not 
a clean record of five years, the Examiner says, "This 
case continued. You may come again." 

The thirteenth petitioner is qualified according to 
the Examiner but as a deposition was necessary here, 
let the Leader explain fully how a deposition is ob- 
tained. 

The last case, suggested, is an illiterate and the Ex- 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 155 

aminer says at the close of his questions — "I recommend 
him, Your Honor." 

Following this let the Leader emphasize the fact that 
more than one examination is given in such cases with 
sufficient time between each to give the petitioner time 
to prepare himself. Only after six months has elapsed 
and the petitioner still proves hopeless, is the case dis- 
missed. 

Out of the seven cases appearing, there will be but 
four remaining on the bench to take the oath of alle- 
giance, unless the Leader has prepared others. 

The Clerk now takes them in hand; first he says, "Will 
you rise and remain standing." Next he calls the roll 
to which they respond ; after which, while they still 
stand, the Judge addresses them. (See model page 163.) 
When the Judge has finished speaking the clerk di- 
rects them to raise their right hands — and now follows 
the oath of Allegiance repeated in solemn tones by the 
Judge — ' ' I hereby declare on oath, that I absolutely and 
entirely renounce and adjure all allegiance and fidelity 
to any foreign prince, potentates, state or sovereignity 
and particularly to (names of Sovereigns) of which I 
have heretofore been a subject : that I will support and 
defend the Constitution and Laws of the United States of 
America against all enemies, foreign and domestic and 
that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same." 
The petitioners in chorus respond "I do." 
The Examiner now says "When the Court shall have 
gone out all petitions with their witnesses may pass to 
the office to sign their certificates which they will receive 
within a few days." 

In ending, the second Deputy Marshal shall call out — 



156 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

"Will all rise and remain standing?" Audience and 
participants alike comply. Then the clerk calls to the 
Crier, "Mr. Crier, close the Court," and in response 
the first Deputy Marshal says, in a loud voice — 

"All persons that have anything further to do before 
the honorable Judge of the District Court of the United 
States now holden at Boston within and for the district 
of Massachusetts, may depart hence and give their at- 
tendance at this place tomorrow at 10 o'clock to which 
time and place this Court is now adjourned. God save 
the United States of America and this Honorable Court. ' ' 

The second Deputy throws open the door, through 
which the Judge retires in a stately manner, and as the 
door closes behind him the performance is ended. 

BRIEF I 

Guiseppe Santoro — (Italian — 6 months in this country) "I 
want first papers'? Where I get?" 

Clerk — (pushing a blank paper toward him) "Can you 
write English?" 

Guiseppe — "No, notta yet." 

Clerk — "Then take this home with you and get some one 
to fill it out for you. Then bring it back here. This 
is not your first paper, but what is called 'Facts for 
Declaration of Intentions.' Understand?" 

Guiseppe—"^' — Si — yes." (Folds the paper carefully, 
puts it in an inside pocket and goes out.) 

BRIEF II 

Joseph Doucette (French Canadian — -one year in this coun- 
try) — (Joseph takes off his hat and produces a dirty 
folded paper which he passes to the clerk) 

Clerk — "You want your first papers. That will cost you 
a dollar." 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 157 

(After bunting through his pockets Joseph produces the 

money from an old sock) 
Clerk — "Take off your hat now hold up your right hand. 

Do you solemnly swear these statements signed by you 

are true — So help me God?" 
Joseph— <*I do." 
Clerk — (Takes paper to typist who begins to bang on her 

machine. Clerk after looking at the paper comes back, 

examines Joseph's eyes.) "They are gray." (Reports 

to typist.) 
(Joseph steps aside for minute until Number three has 

been attended to by the clerk.) 
Clerk — "Joseph Doucette's papers are ready." (Joseph 

moves to the counter.) "Sign your name here and here 

and here. (Producing three papers.) (Joseph signs 

three times x and one of the papers is given him. The 

others are retained by the Clerk.) 

Clerk — "Be sure you don't lose that paper. You will need 
it again." (Joseph goes out.) 

BRIEF III 

James McLain — (Newfoundland — More than five years in 
this country.) 

James — (In a businesslike way marches up to the clerk and 
says) : "This is my Declaration of Intention I got two 
years ago. I want my second papers." 

Clerk — (Unfolding papers on counter.) "You took out 
your first papers when?" 

James— "November, 1918." 

Clerk — (After looking first paper over takes out another 
which he unfolds toward James.) "This is a 'Request 
for Certificate of Arrival' (pointing out all four pages 
of the paper). Fill this all out and after signing it, 

i The three papers to be signed by the Declarant are the 
original, duplicate and triplicate. The original is in the book 
kept at the office, the duplicate is sent to Washington and the 
triplicate is given to the Declarant. 



158 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

send it to the Commissioner of Naturalization, Depart- 
ment of Labor, Washington, D. C. Be sure to send the 
number of your Declaration of Intention, also. You 
will be notified to appear again." 

James — "Will you notify mef . 

Clerk — "No, your notification will come to you from Wash- 
ington but after you receive it, come back here." 

(James looks at second paper — folds it up with first and 
goes out.) 

BRIEF IV 

David Silverstein — Russian — 15 years in this country 

David — "I want to get my second papers." 

Clerk — "Have you your Declaration of Intentions?" 

(David passes them out.) 

Clerk — (Looking at the papers.) "I see you did not leave 
yourself much time. Your seven years would have 
expired next month?" 

David — "I do not always have four dollars at all times." 

Clerk — "As you came to this country before 1906, Mr. 
Silverstein, you will need no Certificate of Arrival." 
(Taking out another paper.) "Now you will take this 
paper which is 'Facts for Petition for Naturalization' 
out in the hall and fill it in for me." 

(David goes into the ante-room and, coming back, after 
Number Five has finished, passes the filled in paper to 
the clerk — the clerk takes it and giving him in ex- 
change the number of his "Declaration" says:) 

Clerk — "Now listen! Get your two witnesses and go to 
the Examiner's office, 313 New North Building for 
your examination; then when you come back here 
again with your witnesses, we can fix you up." 

David — "When do I come here again?" 

Clerk — "After you have qualified — that is, passed your ex- 
amination." 

David — "When do I pay my four dollars?" 

Clerk — "When you come back here to file — that is, you 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 159 

and your witnesses must sign your petition under oath." 
David — ''Then do I get the new paper we sign?" 
Clerk — "No, we keep it here for ninety days." 
David — "But you have my four dollars all that time and I 

have nothings." 
Clerk — "If you cannot trust the United States government, 

you do not want to be a citizen, do you?" 
David — "Will you keep my paper in the safe?" 
Clerk — "It will be safe enough, but by law it must be avail- 
able to the public. That is, your name, as a petitioner, 
will be posted in a public place, so that the world may 
know that you want to be an American citizen." 
David— "That's fine— that's fine. I'll be back soon." 
(Goes out.) 

BRIEF V 

Alexander Marietos (Greek — In this country 6 years, but 
not continuously. Alexander enters before "Number 
Four" has finished and waits timidly) 

Clerk— What can I do for you?" 

Alex — "What about second papers — I have first — " (fum- 
bling in his pockets). 

Clerk — "How many years in this country?" 

Alex — "Six altogether." 

Clerk— "Haven't you lived here five years consecutively?" 

Alex — "You see I come in 1912 — I come again after war." 

Clerk— "Were you in the United States army?" 

Alex— "No, Sir." 

Clerk — "Were you in the Greek army?" 

Alex — "No, Sir" (hanging his head). "One of my legs is 
wooden, sir." 

Clerk — "When did you come back to this country?" 

Alex — "After I get married, Sir." 

Clerk — "How long ago was that?" 

Alex — "Two year ago 1918 — in August. You see I was 
four year first time, two year next — six all." 

Clerk — "You must have lived here five altogether — continu- 
ously — see?" 



160 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

Alex — "When I come again V 

Clerk — "Let's see, you said August, 1918, was when you last 

came. That makes it in 1923." 
Alex— "Good-by." 

BRIEF VI 

Michael McCarty — Irish — 18 months in this country 

Michael — "I am Sargeant McCarty of the 301st. Do I 
understand that I can become a United States citizen 
• without taking first papers?" 

Clerk — "You certainly can if you have been in the service. 
Have you filled out your 'Facts for Declaration of 
Intentions'?" 

Michael — "Yes, I have them here." (Takes from pocket.) 
"And here are my discharge papers, too." 

Clerk — (Glancing over Facts for Declaration.) "All right, 
Sergeant McCarty, you will need no first papers, no 
Certificate of Arrival, but two witnesses that have 
known you to be in the service are necessary for your 
identification." 

Michael — "There are two chaps who served with me, work- 
ing in this building." 

Clerk — "Go bring them in and we will put you through 
immediately." 

Michael — "How soon is immediately?" 

Clerk — "There will be no ninety days' wait. Your name 
will go on the docket ahead, and you will be notified to 
take the oath of allegiance at the next session of the 
Court." 

(Michael goes out and returns with his two witnesses as 
Number Seven finishes.) 

Clerk — (Looking through some papers.) "Lieutenant Mc- 
Carty, this is the number of your 'Declaration.' " 
(Gives him slip.) "Now go to the New North Build- 
ing, Room 313, for examination and then come back 
here for the filing of your papers." 

Michael — "Do the witnesses go with me there?" 

Clerk — "Yes, they must be questioned, too." 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 161 

Michael — "And do they come back again here*?" 

Clerk — "Yes, they must make affidavit concerning their 

statements and you will have to sign under oath, too. 

There will be no fee, as you are a soldier." (Michael 

and all go out.) 

BRIEF VII 

Olaf Stenson — Swede — 10 years in this country 

(Olaf enters with his two witnesses — they go up to the 
counter and Olaf exhibits a slip of paper that is an 
0. K. from the Examiner.) 

Clerk— (Taking the slip.) "You have qualified?" 

Olaf— "I have." 

Clerk — (Pretending to find Olaf's first papers which have 
been left with him.) "Now will you and your witnesses 
hold up your right hands." (All three do as directed.) 
"Do you solemnly swear that these statements signed 
by you are true — So help me God 1 ?" (All three. nod 
their heads.) 

Clerk — "Will you all sign here and here and here." (All 
three sign in three different places.) 

Clerk — (Blotting signatures.) "That will be four dollars, 
please." (Olaf pays and goes out with witnesses.) 

BRIEF VIII 

Donald McLeod — Scotch — Born in Scotland 

Golf Club Maker — 515 Somershire Street, Boston 

Lived 3 years in Allston — 7 in United States 

Served in United States Navy 

Holds inactive release 

Two witnesses now in the service 

(Procurred from Navy Yard) 

BRIEF IX 

Adelbert Zwink — Swiss — Born in Switzerland 

Mechanic — General Electric Co., Lynn 

Lived 5 years in Lynn — 10 in the United States 



162 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

Served in 314th Infantry 

Honorably discharged 

Two witnesses who must have seen him in uniform. 

BRIEF X 

Mohammed Pantos — Turk — Born in Turkey 
Peddler — Lived 2 years in Charlestown — 5 in Massachusetts 
Exempted from service because of alien birth 
Belong to class 5F. (Slackers) 

Two witnesses that have known him to have lived 2 years 
in Charlestown — 5 in U. S. A. 

BRIEF XI 

Frank Wentzen — Austrian — Born Austria 

Barber — 900 Buntington Ave., Boston 

Lived 8 years in Boston — 8 years in Massachusetts. 

Wife now in Austria 

As w r e are still at war, he is an alien enemy, 

Has not petitioned to Washington to be removed from 

Alien Enemy Class 
Shows Liberty Bonds as proof of loyalty 
Two witnesses that have known him 5 years in Boston 

BRIEF XII 

Philip Levousky — Polander — Born in Poland 

Operative Daylight Biscuit Co., Boston 

Lived 5 years in Boston — 8 in Massachusetts 

Served 6 months in jail 3% years ago 

Must have clear record for 1% years more to make 5 years 

in all 
Two witnesses that are not questioned because petitioner 

cannot show clear record for five years as yet 

BRIEF XIII 

Gustaf Oleson— Norwegian — Born in Norway 
Gardner at Scituate, Mass. 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 163 

Lived 15 years in this country — 18 months in Scituate and 
10 years at Glen Cove, Long Island, N. Y. 

Two "witnesses that have known him to have lived in Scituate 
IS months 

Deposition from New York witnesses who have known him 
for 10 more years 

BRIEF XIV 

Thomas McCullum — Canadian — Born Nova Scotia 

Fisherman 

Lived 15 years in U. S. at different parts 

Three years in Massachusetts 

Has three years discharge from fishing vessel. Eligible 

under Seaman's Act 
Illiterate — no chance for schools or to read newspapers but 

not ignorant 
Two witnesses who have known him to have lived three 

years in Mass. 
Note: Many cases may be added to the above list of 
briefs if there are pupils enough to impersonate the char- 
acters. There is the man who has lost his first papers; the 
man who fails to pass his examination; the foreign born 
soldier who served with our allies in the Great War, etc., 
etc. There are provisions made for all of these cases, with 
which the Leader should be familiar. There is also the 
man who is already a citizen and does not realize it. 

MODEL JUDGE'S CHARGE 

Until today, each of you gentlemen here before me, have 
owed allegiance to other countries. You have owed alle- 
giance to the kings of those countries — if they chanced to 
be governed by kings — but from today, you are to know 
no country but this. 

If you do not love our country you should not become 
a citizen of it. He commits gross perjury who takes this 
oath of allegiance today while his first affections still cling 
to his native land. I love but one country and I would as 
soon disown my mother as play my country false. 



164 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

Citizenship in a free country carries with it wonderful 
privileges, which you may not all appreciate as yet. That 
you can now vote in the next election, undoubtedly you 
know; but do you realize that the vote of any one of you 
offsets that of the President ? That fact illustrates the per- 
fect equality between citizens, for which our country 
stands. This from today is yours. 

There is almost no public office to which you may not be 
elected; there is no taxation laid on you which is not laid 
proportionately upon each of us; there is no law by which 
you must abide that is not binding upon us all. This is 
democracy — equal rights and also equality of opportunity. 

Do not mistake me — no form of government can eliminate 
the differences of ability. A Hamilton will always rise to 
power and the incompetent sluggard sink to oblivion; but 
in the United States of America their political rights are 
identical. 

I wonder if you fully appreciate, gentlemen, that equality 
did not establish itself? 

(Now tell story of Plymouth Colony, emphasizing the 
hardships endured and the sacrifices made for the principles 
of liberty which we now enjoy.) 

In conclusion — your old countries had wonderful his- 
tories — histories that gleam with the achievements of brave 
men and great — but through this country, to which you 
have come, runs the thread of pure gold called democracy. 
May it be your lot to add to its brilliancy. 

LIST OF TENTATIVE EXAMINATION QUESTIONS 

(To be used in the Leader's Explanation) 
How old are you? Where do you live? Where born? 
Emigrated from? How long in this country? 
How long in Massachusetts? What is your occupation? 
Are you married? Have you children? 
Do you live with your wife? 
Have you attended evening school? 
Do you read the papers? 
Do you believe in* organized government? 



STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 165 

Did you attend school in the old country"? 

Have you served in army or navy? 

Have you an honorable discharge? 

Have you ever been convicted? 

How long has this been a free country? What is the Con- 
stitution? 

When was the Constitution adopted? How many states 
in United States now? How many at first? 

Who is the president now? How is he elected? 

What is the capital of United States. Of this state? 

What other office does the president hold? 

If he dies who takes his place? 

What was the date of the Civil War? Who fought? 

What was it about? Who was president at that time? 

How many U. S. Senators from Massachusetts? 

Who is your representative in Congress? 

How many divisions in Congress? 

What are the three divisions of our government? 

What do you mean by executive, etc.? 

How are our judges chosen? For how long in this state? 

NOTES FOR LEADER 

In the Examiner's office the two witnesses are sent into 
an adjoining room to fill in what is known as a Witness' 
Statement, while the petitioner is questioned and his an- 
swers are written in by the Examiner on slips called 
"Petitioner's Statements. When these are completed and 
the Examiner is satisfied that the petitioner may go back 
to "file" in the other office (often named "court") he calls 
in the witnesses and goes over their statements with them. 
He also asks for their papers if they chance to be natu- 
ralized citizens. 

When witnesses cannot vouch for but a part of the pe- 
titioner's necessary time of residence in this country, depo- 
sition blanks may be sent to two witnesses in another state 
who can sapply the omission. Having filled in the blanks 
this person can go before the naturalization officials in his 
own state and swear to the truth of his statements, and 



166 STORY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

this document returned to the Examiner and attached to 
the petition, assures its legality. 

Further information is available at Naturalization 
Courts, Naturalization Examiner's offices, State Houses and 
often at the Headquarters of Political Parties. 



CHAPTER VIII 

INTRODUCTION TO PRESIDENTIAL 
CONVENTION 

It will be interesting, as an introduction to the subject 
before us, to make a few conjectures as to why the pa- 
triots who were responsible for our constitution decided 
that a president was necessary at all. At the time, there 
was a considerable faction of super-republicans who felt 
that only a presiding officer or a chairman of the repre- 
sentative governing body was essential, and all agreed 
in fear and hatred of the stereotyped monarch. 

Perhaps it was difficult to break away from old con- 
ventions, and so the makers of the constitution conceived 
a revised edition of a king, shorn of most of his preroga- 
tives and greatly limited in his powers. Perhaps in 
merging the several states into one coordinate whole, 
they felt they must supply a replica of the colonial gov- 
ernor. However we, in our love and reverence for our 
first president, like to believe that the office was made 
to fit the man, for Washington at this time was at his 
high tide of popularity, and his great achievements de- 
served the recognition that such a position afforded. 

If this latter reason is correct, only men who most 
nearly measured up to the original pattern should have 
been the choice for president in all subsequent elections. 
That this has not always been true is due not so much 
to the faulty judgment of the great mass of the American 

167 



168 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

people as to the existence of political parties, which, 
after the first few administrations, came into permanent 
power. 

It will be recalled that whereas Washington was the 
obvious candidate of all the people, and Adams and 
Jefferson stood out preeminently as his two logical suc- 
cessors, it was only when the choice became more varied 
and the people began to divide more openly into party 
factions, that it was found necessary to hold the first 
caucus, the forebear of the presidential convention. This 
was held, so history tells us, to decide upon a candidate 
for vice-president in the year 1800, and the meeting 
was of a secret nature. From that time on until the 
practice was condemned as undemocratic, all the Repub- 
lican and later all the Democratic members of Congress 
met to nominate their candidates. The present system 
of convening delegates elected by the people for that 
purpose was evolved slowly until today the National 
Nominating Conventions of both parties attract as much 
attention as the election itself. 

Presently we shall explain the workings of the electoral 
college, which includes as many electors chosen from 
each state as there are senators and representatives in 
Congress from that state. Now it is the custom to elect 
twice as many delegates to a party convention as there 
are presidential electors and furthermore, each delegate 
is allowed an alternate. These delegates and alternates 
are elected at the primaries in each district. To gain 
a more definite idea of the actual number of dele- 
gates to which each state is entitled, let us get at it in 
this way. Each congressional district which sends a 
representative to Washington is made up of 220,000 in- 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 169 

habitants; consequently every 110,000 inhabitants are 
entitled to a delegate in each party convention, besides 
the four delegates-at-large who correspond to the two 
senators allowed each state. 

The conventions are always held in important cities 
where there are facilities for lodging a large number 
of people, and the time is the summer preceding the 
fall when the presidential election is held. Each state 
group of delegates elects a chairman, and acts usually 
as a unit, but their further prerogatives we shall show 
by demonstration in the latter part of this chapter. 

At the first session of the convention a temporary 
chairman is nominated, the secretaries and clerks ap- 
pointed, and the rules for the conduct of business 
adopted. Then follows the naming of the important 
committees on credentials and resolutions. 

During the period that intervenes before the next 
session some of the hardest fought battles of the con- 
vention are waged. The resolutions committee, whose 
business it is to frame the party platform, must listen 
to the advocates of many causes, such as prohibition, 
woman's suffrage and labor, and usually after dissen- 
sions among its own members, must choose those planks 
deemed most expedient for the good of the party. 

The credentials committee settles debatable claims for 
seats in the convention; these are often contested with 
no little partisan bitterness. Meanwhile the state dele- 
gates take council among themselves, and at this time 
and until the great decision is made, are either dissem- 
seminators or objects of propaganda. When at last the 
second session is called it may, by adjournment from day 
to day, be prolonged until a week has been consumed in 



\ 



170 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

choosing the party's candidates for president and vice- 
president. 

Although many non-voters are unable to describe ac- 
curately the workings of a presidential convention, al- 
most any one can give an intelligent description of a 
presidential campaign. Immediately one recalls the 
slogans, the button badges, the torch-light processions 
and the general excitement attending the campaigns of 
one's childhood. One recalls the tense waiting for elec- 
tion returns, which were sometimes reversed on the fol- 
lowing day. But we seldom realize the almost herculean 
task that falls on the shoulders of the people pushing 
this campaign, — the campaign committees. 

The national campaign committee of each party is 
made up of forty-eight members — one from every state. 
Each member is elected by the delegates from his own 
state, and the announcement of the names of the newly 
elected committeemen is made at the National Conven- 
tions. Through the local committees in each state and 
'county the national committees keep in touch with the 
political situation all over the country, and so are able 
to place the reinforcements at strategic points that have 
often saved the day for their respective parties. 

There is no law to compel even a good party man to 
vote for the party's choice, as there is but one course 
to follow — public opinion must be molded. Campaign 
speeches, campaign literature, slogans, songs, campaign 
issues — and if these last are not obvious they must be 
concocted — are provided. All this propaganda costs 
money, although in our ignorance we may have imagined 
that it spreads of itself like a forest fire, and great 
finesse must be used in the acquisition of funds because 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 171 

the methods used by every campaign organization are 
favorite objects of attack by the rival party. 

The American people love personality, and the candi- 
dates, if possible, are expected to make their appearance 
before audiences in all parts of the country. The cam- 
paign managers realize that a grain of personal magnet- 
ism in their candidate is equivalent to thousands of 
dollars' worth of favorable newspaper copy. However, 
as we can all testify, there is no dearth of the latter 
in the country. The American people love a self-made 
man; they love originality; they love a fighter, either 
with words or arms, therefore the successful candidate 
must have one or more of these requisites. 

A certain length of time after the convention, each 
candidate receives a formal announcement of his nomina- 
tion; and it is at this time, in their speeches of accept- 
ance, that the candidates vie with one another in speak- 
ing the word which will not only attract the atten- 
tion, but win the approval of the great American 
electorate. 

Partly because of our system of patronage which the 
civil service reform has not entirely eliminated, and 
partly because of the unfortunate connection between 
big business interests and legislation, the weeks preced- 
ing election day are periods of tense waiting and ex- 
citement to thousands of people, besides the candidates 
themselves. Once it was all more like the jubilant agi- 
tation before a big football game. Nearly every house 
and shop displayed its picture of a favorite candidate 
framed in the national colors, huge flags hung over the 
streets, wagers were laid in a friendly way, but now so 
great are the stakes, political bosses must spend sleep- 



172 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

less nights, and great financiers many weary hours in 
electioneering. 

It is frequently affirmed that the two great political 
parties differ very little today, except in name. There 
is certainly great similarity in their methods and aims, 
although the leaders of each party struggle valiantly to 
paint them in strongly contrasting colors. 

In the years that have intervened since Jefferson's 
first solution of democracy was offset by Hamilton's 
second solution of aristocracy, resulting in the party at 
first called Federal and later Whig, there have been many 
sharp clashes on grave issues between the parties. The 
greatest issue was abolition of slavery which resolved the 
Whigs into the present Republican party. 

The Democrats claim that theirs is the older party, 
having retained their traditions of Jeffersonian Democ- 
racy during many years, but one can hardly conceive 
of so great and good a man as Thomas Jefferson sponsor- 
ing slavery, nor can we imagine the brilliant Hamilton 
conniving at the regrettable errors of judgment per- 
petrated by many a Republican leader. Perhaps it will 
be perfectly safe to say that the chief difference between 
the parties, after all, lies in men's minds. 

When election day, which is the same in every state 
(i.e. the Tuesday following the first Monday in Novem- 
ber), finally arrives, the actual process of voting is 
identical with that given in a previous chapter. In a 
municipal election, however, we vote directly for the 
candidates, whereas when we vote for a president we 
find what is known as a double election in use; but 
thereby hangs a tale. 

Lord Bryce, our friendly English critic, has said that 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 173 

perhaps no part of the structure of the constitution 
was regarded with more complacency by its framers 
than that part relating to the election of the president 
by the electoral college. And then he adds that " per- 
haps no part has so utterly belied their expectations. " 

Today we can with difficulty conceive of the grave 
distrust felt at that time by the majority of the better 
educated classes for the judgment of the proletariat, or 
the so-called working classes. If they feared imperial- 
ism they equally feared too much democracy. We must 
remember that the new government was to them an un- 
charted country, and also that men like Adams and 
Hamilton set their faces against intrusting important 
issues to an indiscriminate popular vote. On the other 
hand, they did not deem it just to leave to Congress the 
choice of a chief executive. This might make the presi- 
dent the creature of Congress — too subservient to its 
wishes, so they conceived the idea that from each state 
should be selected the men of the greatest ability, inte- 
grity, and judgment, and that these chosen ones, called 
electors, should met together at a given time and place, 
(and in lieu of all), make this momentous choice. 

It is hardly necessary to point out how signally this 
plan, in its original intent, has miscarried, although 
oddly enough its failure has thrown the choice back on 
the people where it always belonged. At the present 
time it would be difficult for the average voter to recall 
the name of any one of the electors from his own state, 
although, as has been stated before, there are as many 
as the total sum of representatives and senators from 
that state. This has come about through the fact that 
although the originators of the idea planned that each 



174 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

elector should go unpledged, this plan, owing to the 
importance of the issue, was discarded as early as the 
fourth election ; and from that day to this each elector is 
bound by a pledge, of honor only, to vote for the candi- 
date his constituents prefer. In fact, for the convenience 
of the voter, the name of the presidential candidate an 
elector represents is placed above the elector's name on 
the ballot. 

Each party within the state chooses its quota of electors 
at large — that is, without reference to districts, 1 and 
any American citizen who is not already ah official in 
some other branch of the government, and is known 
to be loyal to the party's choice of candidate, is eligible. 

Because of this pre-knowledge of the vote of each 
group of electors, the result of a presidential election 
is known long before the second Monday in January 
following the election, the date of the meeting of the 
electoral college. The electors do not meet in one place, 
but each group meets in its own state and then sends the 
results of their balloting to Washington, where they are 
counted at a joint session of the House and the Senate. 
At first the largest number of votes cast for one candi- 
date named the president, and the next largest the vice- 
president, but for more than a century now each elector 
makes out two ballots; one for president and the other 
for vice-president. 

An immense amount of red tape is involved in the 
proceedings which follow this meeting of electors, 2 with 

1 Each state is allowed by the constitution to choose its elec- 
tors as it wishes. At first they were chosen by the legislature 
in some states, later by districts, but now it is found more ex- 
pedient in all the states to elect them on a general ticket. 

2 A very full and accurate account of these proceedings may 
be found in Fiske's "Civil Government in the United States." 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 



175 



which it seems unnecessary to burden the mind at this 
time, but eventually the successful candidate is inaugu- 
rated at Washington on the fourth of March, and for 
four years holds that position which is known as the 
greatest gift the American people can bestow. 



Properties 

Piano 

48 state flags 

Large table 

Chairs 

Large picture of Charlie 

Chaplin 
Large American flag 



Persons 

Temporary Chairman 
Permanent Chairman 
Clerk- 
Chaplain 

Chairman of Resolutions Committee 
Song Leader 
Pianist 
48 people representing states 

Written Material 

List of states arranged alphabetically 

Programs 

Introductory Remarks 

Formal Call 

Prayer (optional) 

Keynote Speech 

Report of Resolutions Committee 

10 Nomination Speeches 

Imaginary Persons 

Favorite Candidates (three) 
Dark Horses (two) 
Favorite Sons (five) 



Favors or badges designating one's choice of candidate 
will add color in both senses to this demonstration. Par- 
tisan yells, which may be easily originated, should be 
given with a zest. 
For example: 

Jit, jit, jitnpy — 

Fliv, fliv, flivver — 

Liz, Liz, Lizzie — 

Henry Ford! Henry Ford! Henry Ford! 



176 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

INSTRUCTIONS 

A good sized hall with a platform should be chosen 
for this demonstration. It should contain a piano, for 
oddly enough music, both vocal and instrumental, plays 
a part at a Presidential Convention. A song leader 
and also a pianist should be secured and both should 
be supplied with programs of the performance (see 
page 184, that they may be perfectly familiar with their 
cues. The pianist should break into a march whenever 
it is indicated, and both pianist and song leader should 
be ready for the singing without being called upon. 
So far as possible spontaneity should be simulated. 
Copies of the program may also be made for the use of 
the chairmen. 

The temporary chairman need not be a parliamentarian 
but should have the qualities of a cheer leader. He 
opens the meeting, makes a short, witty speech, proposes 
three cheers for the United States of America, and after 
introducing the permanent chairman, disappears into 
the audience. 

The clerk sits at the desk upon the platform, reads 
the formal call for the convention and calls the roll 
for the nominations and afterward for the voting. 

The inclusion of the chaplain in this demonstration 
is optional. It is true that a prayer is a time-honored 
institution at a party convention, but if a prayer is felt 
to be an irreverence, it can be omitted entirely. 

For the permanent chairman choose the member of the 
unit who has proved himself most resourceful in the 
chair at the other demonstrations. His part is impor- 
tant, not only because of the keynote speech which he 
must deliver, but also in keeping the whole performance 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 177 

up to the mark. Where there is so much music and 
cheering, even marching about, the tendency to disorder- 
liness and hilarity will develop. This must be handled 
carefully; too much will defeat the educational object 
of the demonstration and not enough will take from 
its realistic value. 

The matter of the keynote speech is optional with the 
leader. If the model given on page 186 seems farcical, 
let some earnest, thinking member of the unit write a 
paper that will embody some vital point of view on 
national politics, and this can be given to the permanent 
chairman to read or recite. 

If there are not forty-eight or more members of the 
unit, others must be invited to join in giving this final 
demonstration of the course, because it is imperative to 
have one person for each state to answer to the roll-call. 
These parts (for the visitors) are so simple that after 
these delegates have been instructed for whom to vote 
on the first ballot, they may be left to the electionering 
of their neighbors during the remainder of the perform- 
ance. When the nomination roll-call occurs, they will 
make no reply. Only members of the unit should make 
nominations, and these should be arranged for previously 
by the leader, and some instruction in nomination 
speeches furnished. One model nomination speech (see 
page 188), is given in this chapter, as a suggestion only. 
When favorite sons are nominated it will be amusing 
to use local names — even member's names — and let the 
data for speeches be real facts, but always complimentary. 
This can surely be left to the ingenuity of the speakers, 
because to say a few pleasant things about a friend is 
never difficult. 



178 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

Each person representing' a state should be furnished 
with a flag on which is printed in large letters the name 
of the state. These can be cut from stiff white card- 
board, lettered in black ink and tacked to a stick not less 
than a yard long (an old curtain stick will be the most 
available). Some device for holding them erect from the 
back of the chair when not in the hand for cheering will 
add much to every one's comfort. 

One large table on the platform for the clerk and chair- 
man's use is all that is necessary, and the ubiquitous 
gavel must be in readiness. 

The photograph or picture of Charlie Chaplin, covered 
by an American flag, to be unveiled by the permanent 
chairman, is suggested to cause a demonstration of cheer- 
ing. It may be possible that some local leader such as a 
favorite woman's club president or popular teacher may 
be a more pleasing candidate to acclaim. If possible 
American flags should also be used to decorate the hall. 

The platform or report of the Resolutions Committee 
must be prepared and in readiness to present to this mock 
convention. The most satisfactory plan for its prepara- 
tion is this: two or three weeks before the performance 
let the leader appoint a committee of three who shall 
make it their business to consult the files of some promi- 
nent daily newspaper for examples of real platforms of 
real political parties. These will be found in the issues 
of June 1920 and from them they may select the planks 
they wish to use, only substituting the name "Republic- 
ratic" before the word "platform" in their mock docu- 
ment. 1 

i For the use of women's clubs, the platform of the Woman's 
Party in the Woman Citizen of Jan. 1920 might be substituted 
intact. 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 179 

Although we have insisted upon an audience of forty- 
eight at least, one three times that size would be better. 
Then each state could have a delegation instead of one 
representative, but it would still be best to use the unit 
rules * in voting. The larger audience would improve 
the singing and add to the zest of the whole performance. 

THE DEMONSTRATION 

The need of a very full and explicit description by the 
leader as an introduction to this demonstration is strongly 
urged. Because of the limitation of time, much that is 
necessary to elucidate and complete the lesson of this 
chapter must be left to precept ; therefore in giving the 
story the leader should not only make plain the workings 
of the presidential primaries, but he should enumerate 
and explain the sessions of the convention, that must 
have preceded this one. 

A resume of the workings of the electoral college will 
be apropos here but it must be of the briefest. Also 
because there will be no favorable opportunity during 
the latter part of this demonstration to make the state- 
ment, the leader should explain at this time that the vice- 
president is nominated in exactly the same manner as 
the president, and it has been omitted from this mock 
session because of its repetition. 

This having been done as clearly as possible, the pianist 
should begin playing a stirring march of national airs. 
There will follow naturally a moving about and a buzz 
of conversation. The temporary chairman should allow 

1 When the poll of a state delegation has been taken and the 
decision for the majority candidate is merely announced by the 
chairman without giving figures, it is called voting by the unit 
rule. 



180 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

this to go on for a minute or two before he mounts the 
platform, followed by the clerk ; the latter having taken 
his seat, the chairman calls the meeting to order with 
his gavel. He then says a few pleasant or humorous 
words with the intent of amusing the audience (see model 
on page 184) , and as he finishes he cries, "Now let us give 
three cheers for the greatest country in the world — the 
United States of America, ' ' When these are given with 
a zest, the chairman calls for three cheers more for the 
greatest party in the country — "The Eepublicratic. ' ' 
Flags wave, feet stamp and as the song leader takes his 
place, the piano leads in The Battle Hymn of the Re- 
public. 

When the singing has died down and the audience is 
again seated, the clerk rises and reads in a monotonous 
voice the formal call for the convention. This is followed 
by prayer (if so desired) by the chaplain who, unan- 
nounced, appears upon the platform. 

If the audience are not somewhat subdued after these 
last two numbers, the temporary chairman may call them 
to order again. Then clearing his throat in imitation of 
a pompous orator, he will introduce the permanent chair- 
man after this fashion — "Ladies and gentlemen, we are 
gathered here on this momentous occasion while the fate 
of a great country hangs in the balance, and were it 
not that I have in mind the name of the great man who 
is about to succeed me as chairman of this assembly, I 
should indeed tremble with fear for the wisdom of your 
decisions, so grave a crisis have we come upon in our 
national life and so great is the need of a wise and ex- 
perienced leader to guide us in the future. As it is, my 
misgivings are allayed, my fears are quieted, and it gives 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 181 

me great joy to introduce to you as the permanent chair- 
man of this great convention, Ellery Channing Hodge of 
the United States of America." 

A burst of hand-clapping follows and increases as the 
chosen chairman comes forward. He bows from right 
to left in acknowledgment of the ovation given him, and 
then turning as if to distract attention from himself, 
pulls the flag from his picture of Charlie Chaplin that 
stands veiled on one side of the platform, and announces 
in a loud voice that here is his candidate for President. 
Now bedlam should break loose. If there is any danger 
of a lack of real enthusiasm, the leader should previously 
instruct several members of the unit to keep up the noise 
as long as possible. After a minute or two, which will 
seem a long time but is very little when compared to 
the half-hour demonstrations at a real convention, the 
pianist begins to play "Dixie," and the song leader wav- 
ing the audience to their feet leads them in a verse or 
two of this southern favorite. This may be supplemented 
by the "Rebel Yell" if it is familiar to the audience. 

During the keynote speech which the permanent chair- 
man now gives, there should be interruptions of clap- 
ping, whenever the last administration is scored. If 
the other suggestion for a keynote speech is followed, 
the clapping will be that of real approval. 

When the chair calls on the resolutions committee to 
make its report, the member chosen should come forward 
and read the entire platform. Afterwards, if time will 
permit, let the unit have a bit of impromptu discussion 
following the suggestion of some one to strike out a cer- 
tain plank to which he objects. All will be so well versed 
in this art, from practice in the other demonstrations, 



182 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

that no preparation will be needed. This platform will 
finally be accepted by the convention in exactly the same 
way that a resolution is accepted in any public gather- 
ing, i.e., moved, seconded, put by the chairman and voted 
upon by choruses- of yeas and nays. 

At last we come to the exciting part of the program 
— the nominations. The clerk begins to call the roll 
alphabetically, beginning with Alabama and ending with 
Wyoming. "When the states are reached that are primed 
to make nominations, the chairman of the delegation 
rises and announces a name, and then amid tumultuous 
applause he mounts the platform and delivers the nomi- 
nation address (see Instructions). Cheering should be 
resumed after each speech. 

When all the nominations are in, and there should 
be no more than ten, the balloting begins. Let the leader 
explain here that although every state may vote as it 
wishes at first, to expedite matters it will be well to dis- 
card the "Favorite Sons" after a little and throw their 
vote to the "Favorites." "Dark Horses" should only 
be resorted to at the last. 

During the roll calls, let several people besides the 
clerk keep the tally, and as all are eagerly watching, the 
excitement grows. We will suppose that Billy Sunday 
polls the strongest vote on the first ballot ; immediately 
the announcement 1 is made, let the state that nominated 
him be on the floor for a demonstration. Three cheers 
are proposed and given, and then as the piano begins 
"Dardanella" let the audience keep time with their feet 
while they wave their flags. The chairman quells this 

1 The clerk announces it, giving each name, with the respec- 
tive number of votes following. 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 183 

at last with his gavel, and the second roll-call proceeds. 
This time perhaps Henry Ford shows unexpected 
strength, and the clerk announces him as forging ahead 
although lacking a majority 1 of all. This will be a signal 
for the state responsible for Ford's nomination to snatch 
the flag and begin marching about followed by others, 
cheering. The piano aids the demonstration by playing 
the "Stars and Stripes Forever." Once more the chair- 
man compels order. 

The third roll-call may still increase the Ford majority, 
and when this is announced, the Billy Sunday faction 
must try to put through a motion to adjourn. After the 
motion is put, it must be voted down, of course, but the 
chair might allow a short recess here, which time should 
be occupied by electioneering. 

The fourth ballot perhaps shows Billy Sunday leading 
again, and the recess following this vote should be used 
to persuade every one to pledge themselves to a Dark 
Horse (Babe Ruth or Mary Pickford or the like) be- 
cause it appears that Sunday and Ford are deadlocked. 

On the fifth ballot comes what is known as a stampede 
to the Dark Horse. As each state names the same candi- 
date, cheers upon cheers resound and as the final count 
is announced the convention breaks loose, flags are thrown 
about, yells are given and pandemonium reigns until the 
first bars of "America" penetrate the din. This song 
concludes 2 the performance of an imitation of a great 
and distinctly American institution. 

1 In the Democratic party, the successful nominee must have 
a two-thirds majority; in the Kepublican, a simple majority. 

2 The session should close with a motion to adjourn but it 
will perhaps be more spontaneous to close with the singing of 
America. 



184 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

PROGRAM 

1. Music — March of National Airs 

2. Temporary Chairman's Address followed by three 

cheers for the U. S. A. 

3. Singing— "Battle Hymn of the Republic'' 

4. Clerk reads Formal Call to Convention 

5. Prayer 

6. Permanent Chairman appears and pulls flag from 

Picture. Cheers. 

7. Singing— "Dixie" 

8. Keynote Speech 

9. Accepting Platform 

10. Nomination Roll Call and speeches — Cheers and clap- 

ping after each one 

11. 1st Roll Call — cheers and clapping to "Dardanella" 

12. 2nd Roll Call — cheers and marching to "Stars and 

Stripes Forever" 

13. 3rd Roll Call — motion to adjourn rejected 

14. 4th Roll Call — recess to plan a stampede 

15. 5th Roll Call — nomination 

16. Cheering — stamping and singing "America." Mo- 

tion to adjourn 



MODEL INTRODUCTORY REMARKS 

Friends, Females and Fellow Fighters, the great Repub- 
lieratie party has met here today with only two high powered 
steam rollers for ironing purposes, to accept from the 
Demicans a mandate for the government of the people of 
the United States of America. 

I welcome you, friends, large and small contributors to 
the campaign funds alike. In fact, toda3 7 the small con- 
tributors are particularly dear to my heart. 

I welcome you, ladies. As I look out upon this audience 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 185 

you are the bright spots that gladden my eyes. Your coop- 
eration in the councils of the nation is a (bad) dream of 
mine fulfilled. Your voices will improve the singing, and 
oh ! I beg of you content yourselves with song. I adore 
your approbation. I take off my hat to your persistence 
— and by the way, will you remove yours? (pause for 
cheers). 

I welcome you, fellow fighters; like Caesar's legions your 
presence assures us of victory and when the sunshine glints 
upon your armour embossed with barnacles, my heart re- 
joiceth. 

Above our heads wave the stars and stripes — the stars 
typical of our leaders, whose lights burn brightly in the 
firmanent of the past; the stripes alas! prophetic of the 
future dress of many of the Demican administration. As 
I lift my eyes I descry the red, the white, the blue. Those 
colors are stamped on the heart of every good party man 
here today. The red stands for love — love of our own party 
and all it means to us if we win; white typifies purity — 
that quality we endow ourselves with in our campaign 
speeches — blue, truth; the truth Ave shall tell about the 
Demieans, but from that blue there shall be no bolt — no 
bolt what-so-ever in this convention. Let us give three 
cheers, etc. 

CALL FOR THE 

REPUBLICRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION 

of 1920 

To the Republicratic Voters of the United States : 
In Pursuance of the rules adopted by the Republicratic 
National Convention of 191G, the Republicratic National 
Committee directs that a National Convention of delegated 
representatives of the Republicratic Party be held in the 
City of Cosmopolis, in the State of Illinois, at eleven 
o'clock A.M. on Tuesday the 8th of June, 1920 for the 
purpose of nominating candidates for President and Vice- 
President, to be voted for at the Presidential Election on 



186 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

Tuesday, November 2, 1920, and for the transaction of 
such other business as may properly come before it. 

The Voters of the several States and of Alaska, Hawaii, 
Porto Rico, the Philippine Islands and the District of 
Columbia who are in accord with the principles of the 
Republicratic Party, believe in its declaration of policies, 
and are in sympathy with its aims and purposes, are 
cordially invited to unite under this call in the selection 
of Delegates to said Convention. 

Said National Convention shall, as provided in the rules 
adopted by the Republicratic National Convention of 1910, 
consist of four Delegates-at-Large from each State; two 
additional Delegates-at-Large for each Representative-at- 
Large in Congress from any State; one Delegate from each 
Congressional District in each State; and one additional 
Delegate for each Congressional District in each State in 
which the vote for any Republicratic Elector in the Presi- 
dential Election of 191 G, or for the Republicratic nominee 
for Congress in the Congressional Election of 1918, shall 
have been not less than (7,500) seven thousand five hundred; 
two Delegates each from Alaska, Hawaii, Porto Rico, the 
Philippine Islands and the District of Columbia. 

Delegates shall be duly qualified voters, men or women, 
of their respective States, Territories or Territorial Pos- 
sessions, and in case of the District of Columbia, residents 
therein. 1 

MODEL KEYNOTE SPEECH 

Ladies and gentlemen of the Republicratic Party, I can 
but pause as my eyes go out over this vast and representa- 
tive audience, an audience representing not only every 

i Then follow instructions as to the election of Delegates. 
Alternate Delegates shall be elected to the Convention equal in 
number to the number of Delegates, in the same manner and at 
the same time; "provided, however, that if the law of any State 
shall prescribe the method of choosing Alternates, they shall 
be chosen in accordance with the provisions of the law of the 
State in which the election occurs." 



PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 187 

geographical section of our great and beloved country, but 
an audience representing the best that that country can 
produce of intelligence and culture, to thank the Father 
of all Mercies that I am not only one of you, but one with 
you in the holy desires which we hold today for the future 
of our country. These desires and their attainment are 
not chimeric. They are not illusive dreams, but rather 
substantial blessings that the Republicratic Party has 
brought to the United States in the past and can of a surety 
bring in the future. 

Now let the speaker review the history of the party — 
(a) its great accomplishments, (b) enlarge upon the great 
national prosperity which it fostered, (c) eulogize its great 
leaders. 

And now in my mind's eye I see another picture. Its 
blackness stands out in sharp relief against the shining 
pages of the past upon which we have mentally been gazing. 
The picture I must now ask you to look upon with me is 
the record of the last administration. It would be pleas- 
anter to look the other way, to turn our backs upon the 
disorder and distress into which the Demicans have plunged 
us, but that would be a coward's way, a slacker's refuge. 
Let us face it squarely; let us turn upon it the search 
light of inquisition and like a brave and skilful surgeon, 
having uncovered the poison and laid the wound bare to the 
bone, let us cut and cauterize until a healing stream of 
fresh blood flows in and health shall once more be our 
precious possession— to say nothing of government jobs. 

Enumerate present unsatisfactory conditions in this 
country — (a) labor unrest, (b) high cost of living, (c) slow 
and inefficient legislation, (d) autocratic government, (e) 
profiteering. 

In every case place the blame on the last administration 
and round out each period by an arraignment of the Demi- 
cans. Close by painting with flowery words a picture of 
the Utopia the Republicratic Party will bring. 



188 PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION 

MODEL NOMINATION SPEECH 

Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great pleasure that I 
come forward to address you, and it is with a keen sense 
of the honor conferred upon me that I have been chosen 
to present to this convention today, a great name, an hon- 
orable name, an international name. In the years that roll 
behind us, this gathering has frequently proved to be a 
vestibule leading to the hall of fame. I find that condi- 
tion exactly reversed in the case of the man whose name 
I am about to propose. I am bringing to you here as- 
sembled, the name of a man who has long occupied a promi- 
nent and important place in the hall of fame. A man 
who only consents to have his name go before you because 
he is a true patriot, and because he has heard the clarion 
call of men crying aloud in the wilderness for a leader, 
and he responds with a magnificent and dauntless courage 
because he loves his country and his fellowmen. 

In all our broad land, from ocean to ocean, there is not 
a city, not a town, not a mansion, nor a modest hut that 
knows not the name of my candidate. Upon the broad 
highways of life, between the hedges of the country lanes, 
where the rocky roads lead to the mountain tops, and over 
the sandy dunes to the sea, there goes his fame. Aye, 
and into other lands his fame has penetrated as well. 
"From Greenland's icy mountains to India's coral strand," 
from pole to pole, wherever a wheel may turn on solid 
ground, — there like a chariot of flame rolls his renown. 

And what have been his deeds that he has gained this 
place of honor in the world? Have they been feats of 
arms'? Nay, for he is a man of peace. Have they been 
attainments of scholarship and great research, giving him 
proud leadership in the universities and colleges'? Have his 
deeds been of statesmanship and great finance? Ah, no, he 
has ever been as an humble servant to his fellowmen. 

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the name of Henry 
Ford, as my candidate for President. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




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